Dilation of the testicular veins may cause pain, heaviness and, in some cases, affect sperm quality.
When to seek emergency care
If any of the following signs occur, call *3003 immediately — do not wait for a routine appointment:
- Sudden severe testicular pain
- Acute testicular swelling
- Fever and redness
- Pain after trauma
What is it?
Treatment is selected based on pain, testicular size, semen parameters and the patient’s reproductive plan. Embolization is one of the minimally invasive treatment options.
Symptoms
- Heaviness in the testicle
- Pain that worsens with prolonged standing
- Sensation of enlarged veins
- Changes in semen analysis parameters
- Sometimes an asymptomatic course
Causes & risk factors
- Venous valve insufficiency
- Anatomical features of venous drainage
- Familial predisposition
- Prolonged standing
- Onset during adolescence
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is not based on a single test alone. Symptoms, risk factors, physical examination findings and instrumental investigation results are assessed together.
- Urological examination
- Scrotal Doppler ultrasound
- Semen analysis
- Hormonal tests in selected cases
- Additional imaging if a secondary cause is suspected
Treatment approaches
Treatment is individualized according to disease severity, the patient’s overall condition, comorbidities and procedural risk.
- Observation
- Pain management
- Microsurgical varicocelectomy
- Varicocele embolization
- Follow-up of the reproductive plan
How we help
At the center, varicocele is assessed from both urological and interventional radiology perspectives. Suitability for embolization is discussed based on Doppler findings, symptoms and reproductive parameters.
When a procedure may be needed
Treatment may be required if there is persistent pain, abnormal semen parameters or a difference in testicular size.
Patient checklist
- Bring your Doppler ultrasound report
- Provide your semen analysis if available
- Note when the pain worsens
- Discuss your reproductive plans openly with your doctor
FAQ
Does varicocele cause infertility?
Not in every patient, but in some cases it may affect sperm quality.
Is embolization a non-surgical treatment?
It is a minimally invasive procedure performed through a small vascular access; suitability is assessed individually.
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