Varicocele
What Is Varicocele?
A varicocele is a condition in which the veins draining the testes become enlarged due to venous reflux and impaired venous drainage. It is similar to varicose veins in the legs and most commonly affects the left testicle (80%). Varicocele is one of the leading causes of male infertility and can also cause scrotal pain and testicular shrinkage.
At Harley Street Medical Centre, Abu Dhabi, our experienced urologists provide accurate diagnosis and advanced varicocele treatment, including sclerotherapy, and microsurgical techniques, to relieve symptoms and improve fertility outcomes.
- How Common Is Varicocele?
- Causes:
- Symptoms:
- Diagnosis:
- Varicocele Treatment:
- Occurs in approximately 15% of adult men
- Present in 35–40% of men with infertility. Incidence is higher in secondary infertility (45-81%).
- Commonly develops during adolescence or early adulthood
Varicocele develops when the valves in the scrotal veins fail to function properly, leading to blood pooling and vein enlargement.
Key causes include:
- Defective venous valves
- Increased pressure in abdominal veins
- Anatomical differences in left-sided venous drainage
Many men have no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Dull or aching pain in the scrotum
- Heaviness or discomfort, especially after standing or exercising
- Visible or enlarged veins in the scrotum (“bag of worms” appearance)
- Reduced testicular size
- Difficulty conceiving
Our diagnostic approach includes:
- Clinical examination by a urologist
- Scrotal ultrasound with Doppler imaging
- Semen analysis for fertility assessment (when required)
Treatment is based on symptoms, fertility goals, and severity.
1. Conservative Management
- Suitable for mild or asymptomatic cases:
- Pain management
- Scrotal support
- Regular follow-up
2. Varicocele Surgery (Varicocelectomy)
Recommended for persistent pain or fertility issues and testicular atrophy especially in adolescence.
Advanced treatment options include:
- Microsurgical varicocelectomy (gold standard): High inguinal or low inguinal ligation
- Laparoscopic varicocelectomy
- Sclerotherapy
- Percutaneous embolization (selected cases)
Our urology team at Harley Street Medical Centre uses evidence-based techniques to ensure optimal outcomes and faster recovery.
When Should You See a Urologist?
Consult a specialist if you experience:
- Persistent scrotal pain or swelling
- Difficulty conceiving
- Visible scrotal veins
- Changes in testicular size
- Early treatment improves outcomes.
If you suspect varicocele or are facing fertility concerns, our specialists at Harley Street Medical Centre are here to help.
FAQs
- Is varicocele serious?
- Does varicocele cause infertility?
- Is varicocele surgery safe?
- How long is recovery after varicocele surgery?
- Can varicocele return after treatment?
Varicocele is not life-threatening, but untreated cases can lead to testicular damage, pain, and infertility.
Yes. Varicocele is one of the most common reversible causes of male infertility, affecting sperm count, motility, and quality.
Yes. Varicocele surgery is safe and effective when performed by experienced urologists.
Most patients resume normal activities within 7–10 days. Improvement in fertility parameters may take 3–6 months.
Recurrence is uncommon, especially with microsurgical approaches or sclerotherapy.
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