QUESTION: What is varicocele?

Varicocele is a pathological expansion of the veins of the spermatic cord, which is located inside the scrotum and resembles varicose veins on the legs in its manifestation. This anatomical disorder is often diagnosed in adolescence during puberty and can progress over time.

The main danger of this condition lies in its potential negative impact on male fertility and the ability to conceive. Enlarged veins increase the temperature in the testicular area, which disrupts the normal process of sperm maturation and worsens spermiogram parameters.

In the early stages, the disease is often completely asymptomatic, and a man may discover it accidentally during a routine medical examination. Sometimes, aching pain in the scrotum appears over time, which intensifies by the end of the day, after physical exertion, or prolonged walking.

For accurate diagnosis of varicocele, a urologist performs a visual inspection and palpation of the scrotum in standing and lying positions, after which an ultrasound examination with dopplerography is prescribed. If the disease is accompanied by pain syndrome or causes deterioration in sperm parameters, the patient is recommended surgical treatment to restore normal blood flow.