Infertility is often misunderstood as a woman’s issue — but medical science tells a different story. In nearly 40–50% of infertility cases, the problem lies with the male partner. One of the most common and yet underdiagnosed causes of male infertility is a condition called Varicocele.
A varicocele is an abnormal enlargement of veins inside the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the legs. It can lead to chronic testicular pain, swelling, low sperm count, and even testicular atrophy (shrinkage).
While surgical treatments exist, many men are now opting for a safer, faster, and non-surgical alternative called Varicocele Embolization — now available in Indore at CVIC (Central Vascular & Interventional Clinic) under expert Interventional Radiologists.
This blog explores everything you need to know about this breakthrough treatment.
What is Varicocele?
A varicocele is a collection of dilated veins in the pampiniform plexus of the scrotum. It occurs when the valves inside the veins that run along the spermatic cord fail, causing blood to pool and veins to swell.
It’s essentially the same mechanism as varicose veins, but it affects the scrotum and testicles.
How Common is It?
- Affects around 15% of all men
- Seen in up to 40% of men evaluated for infertility
- Most common on the left side due to anatomical differences
- Often begins during adolescence
Symptoms of Varicocele – More Than Just Discomfort
While some varicoceles are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, many patients report the following:
✅ Common Symptoms:
- Dull or sharp scrotal pain, worse after standing or exercise
- Visible or palpable enlarged veins (bag of worms appearance)
- Swelling or heaviness in the testicle
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Low sperm count or poor sperm motility
- Testicular shrinkage (atrophy)
🧠 If you’re experiencing testicular discomfort or have been diagnosed with unexplained infertility, a varicocele could be the hidden culprit.
How Does Varicocele Affect Fertility?
The veins in the scrotum help regulate temperature and drain blood from the testicles. When these veins become enlarged:
- Scrotal temperature rises, affecting sperm production
- Reduced oxygen supply to the testicles
- Toxic metabolite build-up occurs
- Sperm DNA quality may deteriorate
Studies show that correcting a varicocele improves semen parameters and boosts fertility in many cases.
Diagnosis – How Is Varicocele Identified?
Diagnosis is typically made through:
- Physical examination (standing, coughing, palpation)
- Scrotal ultrasound or Doppler – confirms size and flow
- Semen analysis – low sperm count, motility, morphology
- Hormone levels (testosterone, FSH, LH)
Traditional Treatment: Varicocelectomy (Surgical Approach)
Varicocelectomy is an open or laparoscopic surgery that involves tying off the affected veins. While effective, it comes with:
- Incision and stitches
- Spinal or general anesthesia
- 1–2 weeks of downtime
- Potential risks: bleeding, hydrocele, nerve injury, recurrence
Varicocele Embolization – The Minimally Invasive Alternative
Varicocele Embolization is a non-surgical, catheter-based procedure performed by an Interventional Radiologist. Instead of cutting or removing veins, this technique blocks abnormal blood flow internally using coils or glue-like agents.
🔬 How It Works:
- A thin catheter is inserted into a vein in the groin or neck
- Using real-time fluoroscopic (X-ray) imaging, the catheter is guided to the affected testicular vein
- A metallic coil or sclerosant is used to block the vein
- Blood flow is rerouted to healthy veins, reducing pressure and swelling
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Outpatient Admission – No general anesthesia required
- Local Anesthesia – Groin or neck region
- Imaging Guidance – Using DSA (Digital Subtraction Angiography)
- Catheter Navigation – Via the internal venous system
- Coil/Glue Deployment – Abnormal vein sealed off
- Monitoring & Discharge – Same-day or next morning
Benefits of Varicocele Embolization
| Feature | Surgery (Varicocelectomy) | Embolization |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Open/laparoscopic incision | No incision |
| Anesthesia | Spinal/General | Local |
| Hospital Stay | 1–2 days | Day-care |
| Scarring | Yes | No |
| Pain | Moderate | Mild |
| Risk of Infection | Medium | Very Low |
| Return to Work | 7–10 days | 2–3 days |
| Recurrence Rate | 5–15% | <2% |
| Cost | Variable | Often Lower |
🔍 Scientific studies show embolization has similar or better success rates than surgery with significantly fewer side effects and quicker recovery.
Who is a Candidate for Varicocele Embolization?
- Men with clinical varicocele + symptoms
- Those with infertility or low semen quality
- Men with testicular pain or heaviness
- Patients who experienced recurrence after surgery
- Anyone seeking a non-surgical solution
What About Fertility After Embolization?
- Improved sperm count and motility in most cases
- Natural conception becomes more likely
- In IVF cases, semen quality often improves
- No impact on testosterone levels or libido
Success in fertility depends on various factors like age, duration of infertility, and female partner’s health.
Why Choose CVIC Indore for Varicocele Embolization?
CVIC (Central Vascular & Interventional Clinic) is a top-rated center in Central India offering advanced non-surgical treatments for vascular and reproductive conditions under expert supervision.
What Sets CVIC Apart:
✅ Specialist Interventional Radiologists
✅ Latest Cath Lab + Imaging Technologies
✅ Patient-focused, evidence-based care
✅ Same-day discharge, less downtime
✅ Collaborative care with fertility centers
We not only perform the procedure but coordinate your fertility journey with andrologists, urologists, and IVF experts.
FAQs – Answering Common Patient Questions
❓ Is embolization painful?
🅰️ Minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used. Most patients resume normal activities within 2–3 days.
❓ Will I need bed rest?
🅰️ No. You’ll rest for a few hours post-procedure and can go home the same day.
❓ Are there any scars?
🅰️ No. The procedure is done through a tiny puncture — no stitches or visible scars.
❓ Does embolization affect sexual function?
🅰️ No. In fact, many men report improved confidence and performance due to pain relief and better fertility.
❓ Is this covered under insurance?
🅰️ Yes, most health insurance plans cover embolization procedures. Our team at CVIC will assist you with approvals.
Book Your Appointment Today at CVIC Indore
If you are struggling with pain, infertility, or have been diagnosed with varicocele — you deserve expert, non-invasive care.
📍 Clinic Address:
CVIC – Central Vascular & Interventional Clinic
Vijay Nagar, Near Bombay Hospital Square, Indore – 452010
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +91-8103727728
📧 Email: info@cvicindore.com
🌐 Website: www.cvicindore.com
Final Words
Varicocele embolization is not just a medical procedure — it’s a second chance for men dealing with chronic pain and infertility. It’s safe, fast, and now available in Indore under the trusted care of CVIC.
Take the step toward relief, recovery, and reproductive health — without surgery.
Choose confidence. Choose CVIC.
