Varicocele Grades & Diagnosis
How Doctors Grade Varicocele
Varicocele is usually graded clinically as:
Grade I - Small
Felt only when you bear down (Valsalva manoeuvre)
Grade II - Medium
Easily felt at rest
Grade III - Large
Visible and felt easily even without touching
There is also subclinical varicocele, seen only on ultrasound, not on physical exam.
Clinical Examination
During your visit, the doctor will:
- Examine the scrotum while you stand and lie down
- Ask you to bear down / cough to make the veins more prominent
- Check testicular size and consistency
- Look for other causes of scrotal swelling or pain
This is a simple, quick and usually painless examination.
Ultrasound & Doppler
An ultrasound with Doppler is often used to:
- Confirm the presence of varicocele
- Measure the diameter of veins
- Assess blood flow and reflux
- Compare both testicles
This helps in planning treatment and in follow-up after surgery or embolisation.
Semen Analysis & Hormonal Tests
If fertility is a concern, your evaluation may include:
- Semen analysis – sperm count, motility, morphology
- Sometimes hormonal profile – testosterone, FSH, LH, etc.
These tests help decide whether treating varicocele is likely to improve fertility.
Want a clear picture of your varicocele grade and impact?
Book an appointment for a complete diagnostic work-up.