Understanding Varicocele:
Varicocele is a common condition, occurring in about 15% of healthy men and up to 35% of men seeking infertility treatment. It typically manifests during adolescence or early adulthood and is often discovered during routine physical exams or evaluations for infertility. Varicoceles occur when the valves within the veins along the spermatic cord fail to function correctly, causing blood to pool and the veins to dilate, similar to varicose veins in the legs.
Effects on Fertility:
One of the primary concerns associated with varicocele is its potential impact on fertility. The increased blood flow and elevated temperature within the scrotum can impair sperm production and quality, leading to infertility in some cases. However, it’s essential to note that not all men with varicocele experience fertility issues, and many can father children without difficulty.
Debunking myths associated with varicocele:
Can varicocele cause impotence?
Impotence, or erectile dysfunction (ED), is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Unlike conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or neurological disorders, which are well-established causes of ED, the direct link between varicocele and impotence is less supported by scientific evidence.
A study investigated how severe bilateral varicocele affects men’s ability to have erections and father children. They studied 29 patients split into two groups: those with erectile dysfunction and those with male infertility, alongside a control group of men with normal sexual function and fertility. Through medical history, physical exams, and hormone and semen analysis, they found that men with erectile dysfunction had smaller testicles compared to controls, while men with infertility had even smaller testicles. Erection-troubled men had lower sperm count and semen volume, but normal sperm movement and shape, while infertility patients had significantly lower sperm count, reduced sperm movement, and increased abnormal sperm shape. Testosterone levels were lower in both groups compared to controls, with erectile dysfunction patients having slightly higher levels than infertility patients. Hormonal imbalances were seen in both groups.
These findings suggest that severe bilateral varicocele may impair testicular function, leading to erectile dysfunction and male infertility, with alterations in hormone levels potentially contributing to these issues.
Can a varicocele cause cancer?
There’s no direct evidence suggesting that varicoceles cause cancer. However, some studies have noted elevated intrascrotal temperature as the risk of testicular cancer among men with varicoceles compared to those without. A study demystified this theory by finding no association between having varicocele and later developing cancer.
Can varicocele cause permanent damage?
Varicoceles can potentially cause permanent damage, particularly if left untreated. Some of the possible complications associated with untreated varicoceles include:
- Infertility: Varicoceles can lead to reduced sperm quality and production due to increased testicular temperature and altered blood flow. If left untreated for a prolonged period, this could result in permanent infertility.
- Testicular atrophy: In severe cases, prolonged varicoceles may cause the affected testicle to shrink (atrophy) due to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply. Testicular atrophy can be irreversible and may affect hormone production and fertility.
- Chronic pain: Varicoceles can cause discomfort or pain, particularly when standing or during physical activity. If left untreated, this pain may become chronic and significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
- Psychological effects: Chronic discomfort, fertility issues, or concerns about testicular health can lead to psychological distress, affecting mental well-being and overall quality of life.
Varicocele erectile dysfunction cure
If you’re experiencing symptoms of impotence or have concerns about your sexual health, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. A thorough medical evaluation, including a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly laboratory tests, can help determine the underlying causes of your symptoms.
For men diagnosed with varicocele and experiencing impotence, treatment strategies may vary depending on individual circumstances. In cases where varicocele is deemed to be contributing to erectile dysfunction, addressing the underlying vascular abnormalities through surgical intervention (varicocelectomy) may be considered. Conventionally, this surgery is a hectic and complicated procedure with lots of post-operative sequelae and prolonged recovery. A good alternative to this is minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for varicocele.
MIS, as the name suggests, comprises a very tiny incision with minimal pain, quick recovery, and very few or rare complications. The surgeon embolizes the defective vein, thus creating a bypass for healthy blood flow. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is the pioneer of this procedure in Pakistan. He is an interventional radiologist and an accomplished endovascular surgeon who introduced MIS here. He has extensive experience in this field and has helped many men with fertility issues from all over the world. Not only does he specialize in the treatment of male infertility causes, but also female infertility issues.
For further information email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.
