Varicocele

A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins that drain the testis, similar to varicose veins elsewhere in the body, and is found more often on the left side. It is common in the general male population, and many men with a varicocele have no fertility problems at all. In some men, a varicocele is associated with reduced sperm concentration, motility or morphology, thought to relate to increased scrotal temperature or changes in local blood flow. Where a varicocele is found alongside abnormal semen parameters and no other explanation, surgical or radiological treatment may be considered, though the decision depends on the couple's overall fertility assessment rather than the varicocele alone.

Also known as: varicose veins in scrotum, scrotal varicocele

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.