January 12, 2025 05:47 PM IST
Swollen Veins in the Testicles: An Overlooked Cause of Male Infertility That You Cannot Ignore. Here’s everything you need to know.
Swollen veins inside the testicles, also known as varicocele, are a common but often overlooked cause of male infertility. Varicocele is a condition where the veins inside the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. ,Also read: Male Infertility: Struggles in the Bedroom? This everyday health problem may be behind erectile dysfunction in young men,
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sandeep Talwar, fertility specialist at Nova Southend Fertility and IVF in Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, said, “Varicocele is the most common cause of infertility in men. It affects a large number of males, especially those who fall under the age group of 15 to 25 years. Initially one may not experience significant pain or discomfort due to varicocele, but it can harm fertility resulting in infertility in men.
He elaborated, “This particular condition causes various changes in the body such as disrupting the normal temperature which is necessary for the regulation of the testicles. The testes are essential for the production of sperm. Sudden increase in temperature can cause many problems like abnormal sperm development, low sperm count and even decreased testosterone levels. These issues can completely reduce your chances of discovering paternity.

Understanding how varicocele harms fertility
Dr. Sandeep Talwar shared, “Swollen veins inside the testicles can lead to problems like poor sperm quality and low sperm count. This can negatively impact a man’s ability to conceive naturally. Varicocele can cause a sudden rise in temperature which seriously harms sperm production. Extreme temperatures can inhibit sperm development leading to reduced motility and abnormal shape. Sometimes, it can also cause oxidative stress, which can affect sperm DNA.
He revealed, “Varicocele can also reduce the testosterone levels in your body which can have a significant impact on your fertility. It can also cause hormonal imbalance which can make it challenging for men to produce healthy sperm. If varicocele is not treated it can reduce the chances of conceiving naturally. This can complicate your journey of becoming a parent. It becomes important to consult a doctor immediately to get timely treatment. This can help improve the quality of your sperm, helping you conceive successfully.

Lastly, Dr. Sandeep Talwar said, “The need of the hour is to approach a fertility consultant without any delay to be able to manage this condition. Physical examination and semen analysis will help in ascertaining the severity of the condition and the impact of the condition on sperm production. In addition, surgical repair will be recommended for the patient to be able to increase his fertility. Men should choose wisely after consulting an expert. It is not at all appropriate for the expert to ignore this situation. Men should be extra cautious when it comes to their reproductive health.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.

Get your daily dose of fashion, Taylor Swift, health, festivals, travel, relationships, recipes and all other latest lifestyle news on Hindustan Times website and apps.
See more
Get your daily dose of fashion, Taylor Swift, health, festivals, travel, relationships, recipes and all other latest lifestyle news on Hindustan Times website and apps.
see less