What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is a group of enlarged veins around a testicle. It often causes no symptoms, but some people notice a heavy feeling, aching pain, a change in testicle size or difficulty having children. A clinician can confirm the cause and explain whether observation or treatment is sensible.
In short
- Not every varicocele needs treatment.
- Pain, testicle size change and an abnormal sperm test can change the discussion.
- An examination is often the first step; an ultrasound may be useful in some situations.
Medical review: Dr. Adarsh M. Patil, MS (General Surgery), FMAS. This page is for education and is not a personal diagnosis.