Does Varicocele Cause Infertility? Symptoms & Treatment

Does Varicocele Cause Infertility

There are several medical conditions affecting fertility in males and females. About half of the causes are due to male factors. It is necessary to grasp the importance of male infertility conditions and their symptoms. One of the common conditions in males suffering from infertility is varicocele. This reduces the sperm count, affects motility and morphology of sperm. With proper evaluation and treatment this condition is reversible and can restore fertility in males.

Causes of Infertility in Adults

Besides varicocele, other causes of infertility in males include:

  • Hormonal disorder such as hypogonadism and hyperprolactinemia
  • Infections – STIs or history of mumps orchitis.
  • History of surgery of genital organs
  • Lifestyle- smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol intake or exposure to radiation.

 

If male factor is not the cause of infertility then our doctors at Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic evaluate female factors impacting conception, which most commonly include ovulation disorders, blockage of fallopian tubes or uterine disorders.

How does Varicocele Affect Fertility?

Varicocele in simple terms means enlargement of veins in the scrotum due to pooling of blood. This usually occurs on the left side. This commonly affects sperm production in males. Due to varicocele, testicular temperature increases, oxygen supply decreases, oxidative stress may damage DNA, and hormonal production in the testes may be affected.

Symptoms of varicocele include dull aching pain in the scrotum, visible or enlarged veins, heavy feeling of the testicle or testicular shrinkage. These symptoms are taken into great account if the couple is suffering from infertility. However, not all males diagnosed with varicocele are infertile. In many cases, couples can still achieve pregnancy naturally.

Diagnosis of Fertility Problems

The initial step to diagnosing male infertility problems after detailed history and examination is semen analysis. This gives details about sperm count, motility, and morphology. If the semen analysis is abnormal, our doctors at Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic evaluate the cause by further tests. These tests include hormonal profile, testicular ultrasounds, genetic testing and testicular biopsy. Varicocele is easily detected on testicular ultrasound.

Treatment Options for Infertility

Infertility treatment usually begins with lifestyle modifications. However, in cases of varicocele, male infertility treatment may require varicocelectomy or percutaneous embolization. This usually resolves the infertility issue in males. Male infertility includes medications for hormonal therapy and sperm retrieval techniques. Assisted reproductive techniques might be recommended by our fertility experts at Njinsky if infertility is due to combined male and female factors. Other treatments for male infertility include medications for hormonal therapy and sperm retrieval techniques. This may require some additional female infertility treatments.

Varicocele being the leading cause of infertility in males. It is also crucial to understand how male factors can affect fertility and delay conception. It is also vital to understand symptoms of varicocele and get treatment at the right time to prevent long-term complications. Fertility experts at Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic rule out all causes of infertility in males for an accurate diagnosis to provide the most effective treatment.

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