Varicocele

About Varicocele

A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, the loose pouch of skin that holds the testicles. These veins transport oxygen-depleted blood away from the testicles. When a varicocele develops, blood pools in the veins, causing poor circulation and enlargement. Varicoceles can occasionally cause intermittent testicular pain. A varicocele can cause poor testicle development, low sperm production, or other fertility issues.

Symptoms of Varicocele

Varicoceles usually form during puberty and develop over time. While they often do not cause noticeable symptoms, they can lead to discomfort or other issues in some cases. The severity of symptoms can vary.

Symptoms of varicocele may include:

• Aching or discomfort in the scrotum, especially after standing or physical activity
• A small lump above the affected testicle
• Shrinking of a testicle
• Swelling or visibly enlarged veins in the scrotum

Risk Factors for Varicocele

There are no major risk factors for developing a varicocele, but certain conditions can increase your chances.

Risk factors for varicocele may include:

• Ages between 15 and 25
• Family history of varicoceles
• Left-sided varicocele (more common due to the anatomy of the veins)
• Occupations or activities that involve prolonged standing or heavy physical exertion

Treating Varicocele at UT Health Austin

While at-home remedies are often the first line of treatment for a varicocele, the need for treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the impact on fertility. Treatment may not be necessary if the varicocele is not causing pain or fertility issues. However, several treatment options are available if symptoms persist or fertility is affected. A varicocelectomy is typically recommended for severe varicoceles that cause pain or affect fertility. During this procedure, the affected veins are cut and sealed off, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins in the scrotum. Additionally, interventional radiologists can perform an embolization procedure to treat varicoceles. Your care team will guide you through the risks, benefits, and what to expect during both the treatment and recovery process.

Care Team Approach

At UT Health Austin, we take a multidisciplinary approach to your care. This means you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines caring for you in one place to avoid having to schedule multiple appointments with providers at locations all over the city. Your care team will include a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist with extensive experience in the medical and surgical treatment of the urinary system and the male genital tract who works alongside a team of health experts to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and improve your overall quality of life. We also collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to deliver highly specialized procedures and offer personalized treatment options with a focus on increasing overall quality of life. We are committed to communicating and coordinating your care with your other healthcare providers to ensure that we are providing you with comprehensive, whole-person care.

Learn More About Your Care Team