Bilateral Varicocele | Does It Affect Fertility More?
Many couples struggling with infertility are surprised to learn that the cause may not always be hormonal or genetic. In many men, a simple and treatable condition called varicocele can affect fertility.
While most varicoceles occur on one side, some men develop varicocele on both sides of the scrotum, known as bilateral varicocele. A common question patients ask is whether bilateral varicocele affects fertility more than a single-sided condition.
The answer is yes, it can have a greater impact. However, with timely treatment, fertility can improve significantly.
What is a Varicocele?
A varicocele is the enlargement of veins inside the scrotum, similar to varicose veins seen in the legs. These veins fail to drain blood properly, leading to pooling of blood around the testicles.
For healthy sperm production, the testicles need to stay slightly cooler than normal body temperature. When blood accumulates, the temperature rises, which may interfere with sperm formation and quality.
When both testicles are affected, it is referred to as bilateral varicocele.
How Does Bilateral Varicocele Affect Fertility?
Varicocele is one of the most common reversible causes of male infertility and is seen in nearly 40 percent of men facing fertility issues.
When both sides are involved, fertility may be affected more because:
- Heat increases around both testicles
- Sperm count may decrease
- Sperm motility may reduce
- Sperm quality and shape may be affected
- Long-term cases may cause testicular shrinkage
Since both testicles contribute to sperm production, bilateral varicocele can sometimes reduce overall fertility more than a one-sided condition.
How Does Bilateral Varicocele Affect Fertility?
Some men may not notice any symptoms, while others may experience:
- A dull or dragging pain in the scrotum
- Heaviness after standing for long hours
- Visible or enlarged veins
- Testicular discomfort
- Difficulty conceiving
If you have these symptoms or abnormal semen analysis reports, a medical evaluation is recommended.
Is Bilateral Varicocele Treatable?
Yes. Modern treatments are safe, minimally invasive, and highly effective.
At Expert IR Neuro & Vascular Clinic, advanced varicocele embolization is performed by Dr. Santosh B. Patil, who specializes in non-surgical vascular procedures.
What is Varicocele Embolization?
Varicocele embolization is a non-surgical alternative to open surgery. It involves inserting a tiny catheter through a small puncture in the skin and blocking the enlarged veins to redirect blood flow.
This procedure offers several benefits:
- No stitches or cuts
- Minimal pain
- Day-care procedure
- Faster recovery
- Early return to routine activities
Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.
Can Fertility Improve After Treatment?
Yes. Studies show that treating varicocele can lead to:
- Improved sperm count
- Better motility
- Enhanced sperm quality
- Higher chances of natural conception
- Improved success rates in assisted reproductive treatments
Many couples achieve pregnancy naturally within months after treatment
Bilateral varicocele may affect fertility more because both testicles are involved. However, it remains one of the few completely treatable causes of male infertility.
Early diagnosis and expert care can make a significant difference in reproductive outcomes.
If you are experiencing symptoms or facing fertility challenges, consult Dr. Santosh B. Patil at Expert IR for safe, advanced, and minimally invasive treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bilateral varicocele can be more concerning because both testicles are affected, which may lead to greater impairment in sperm production and overall male fertility.
Yes, bilateral varicocele is associated with reduced sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, and increased sperm DNA fragmentation — all of which can contribute to male infertility.
It may increase scrotal temperature and oxidative stress, leading to low sperm count (oligospermia) and reduced sperm motility (asthenozoospermia).
In some men, bilateral varicocele may affect Leydig cell function, potentially leading to low testosterone levels and symptoms of hypogonadism.
Microsurgical varicocelectomy is considered the gold standard treatment, offering lower recurrence rates and improved sperm parameters compared to other techniques.
