A varicocele is when the veins in the scrotum (the sac that holds the testicles) get bigger and swollen. It’s kind of like varicose veins in the legs, but it happens in the scrotum. This happens because the valves in the veins don’t work right, so blood pools up and makes the veins larger.
It’s pretty common, especially in guys aged 15-25.
It usually happens on the left side of the scrotum, but it can happen on both sides or just the right side.
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but it’s often because:
The valves in the veins don’t work properly, so blood flows backward and pools up.
There’s more pressure in the veins around the testicles.
Some guys don’t feel anything, but others might notice:
A dull ache or pain in the scrotum, especially after standing or exercising.
A heavy or dragging feeling in the scrotum.
Swollen veins that feel like a “bag of worms.”
In some cases, the testicle might shrink (called testicular atrophy).
It can also cause fertility problems (trouble having kids) because it can affect sperm.
A doctor can usually find a varicocele by:
Feeling the scrotum during a physical exam, especially when you stand or bear down.
Doing an ultrasound to check the veins and blood flow.
Not all varicoceles need treatment. But if it’s causing pain, testicle shrinkage, or fertility problems, treatment options include:
Observation: If it’s not causing problems, the doctor might just keep an eye on it.
Surgery: The doctor can tie off or block the swollen veins to redirect blood flow. This can be done through small cuts or with a microscope.
Embolization: A radiologist can block the vein using a tiny tube and special materials.
Most guys feel less pain after treatment.
If the varicocele was causing fertility issues, sperm quality often improves.
If you think you might have a varicocele or have symptoms like pain or swelling, talk to a doctor (like a urologist) to get checked out.
