Varicocele: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Varicocele is a condition characterized by enlarged veins within the scrotum. It may lead to male infertility.

Varicocele FAQ

Image credit: ivein.com

What causes a varicocele to enlarge?

In healthy veins inside the scrotum, one-way valves move the blood from the testicles to the scrotum, which sends it back to the heart. Sometimes the blood doesn’t move through the veins like it should and begins to pool in the vein, causing it to enlarge. A varicocele develops slowly over time.

What does a varicocele look like?

A mass in the scrotum. If a varicocele is large enough, a mass like a "bag of worms" may be visible above the testicle. A smaller varicocele may be too small to see but noticeable by touch. Differently sized testicles. The affected testicle may be noticeably smaller than the other testicle.

How are varicoceles found?

Varicoceles are found through self-exam of the scrotum or during a routine doctor’s exam. They have been described as a “bag of worms” because of how they look and feel. Urologists often check for varicoceles with the patient standing.

How do you know if you have a varicocele?

A varicocele usually occurs on the left side of the scrotum and often produces no signs or symptoms. Possible signs and symptoms may include: Pain. A dull, aching pain or discomfort is more likely when standing or late in the day. Lying down often relieves pain. A mass in the scrotum.

What is varicocele (var-IH-Koe-Seel)?

Varicocele (VAR-ih-koe-seel) describes a condition with swollen and enlarged veins in the scrotum (Figure 1). These veins carry blood from the testicles that is low in oxygen and nutrients. Swelling can happen when blood flows backward in the veins. Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins in the leg.

What are varicoceles in the scrotum?

Varicoceles are when the pampiniform plexus veins in the scrotum become enlarged. These veins are like varicose veins (twisted, swollen veins found in the leg.) Varicoceles form during puberty. They can grow larger, and you may notice them more over time. Varicoceles are more common on the left side of the scrotum.

What is a varicocele enlargement?

A varicocele (VAR-ih-koe-seel) is an enlargement of the veins within the loose bag of skin that holds the testicles (scrotum). These veins transport oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. A varicocele occurs when blood pools in the veins rather than circulating efficiently out of the scrotum.