Varicocele

A varicocele (VAIR-ick-oh-seal) is a common disorder that enlarges the veins in your scrotum. Your scrotum is the pouch of skin behind your penis that typically contains your testes (testicles). Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins. Varicose veins cause veins in your legs to swell and lose their shape.

Varicoceles are usually painless but can sometimes cause testicular pain, which may come and go. In some people, a varicocele may cause infertility. If a varicocele doesn’t bother you, you may not need treatment.

Is a varicocele serious?

Varicoceles aren’t life-threatening. However, a varicocele can be very serious if you’re trying to have a biological child.

Can varicoceles affect fertility?

Yes, varicoceles can affect fertility in some people. Varicoceles can contribute to about 40% of all cases of male infertility. However, many people with varicoceles have no problems achieving pregnancy.

Medical experts don’t understand what role varicoceles play in infertility. It’s possible that the temperature inside your scrotum increases due to the buildup of blood in the veins. The higher temperature affecting both testicles may affect sperm count or production.

Talk to a healthcare provider if you suspect you have infertility. Fertility concerns are the top reason why people receive varicocele treatment.

How common are varicoceles?

Varicoceles affect 15% to 20% of all men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) in the United States — about 1 in 5. A varicocele is more likely to occur on the left side of your scrotum because of differences in how blood drains from your left testicle back into the major veins of the body. Less commonly, it can affect the right side or both sides.