Varicocele

A varicocele is a collection of swollen veins around the testicle, rather like a varicose vein, most often on the left. It raises the temperature around the testis and is associated with reduced sperm count, motility and DNA integrity, though many men with one are fertile. Surgical or radiological treatment may be considered when the varicocele is clinically obvious and semen parameters are abnormal.

Also known as: varicoceles, scrotal varices

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.