What are the effects of varicocele on testicular function and sperm?

There are many factors that lead to male infertility, and varicocele is one of them. What is the impact of this on male reproduction and what are the factors that lead to this?

Causing factors

Once a man has varicocele, the temperature of the testicles will rise. Because the testicles lack good venous return, the testicular temperature will rise to a certain extent. However, the occurrence and growth of sperm require some specific environment, so they are not adapted to this temperature rise, and sperm production is hindered. When the varicocele is varicocele, the blood return of the testicular vein is blocked and stagnated, which affects the blood circulation in the testicles, causing CO2 accumulation in the blood, thereby interfering with the normal metabolism of the testicles and affecting sperm production.

On the other hand, varicocele can also cause some kidney discomfort. Metabolites of the adrenal glands, such as cortisol, catecholamines, and 5-hydroxytryptamine, may flow back into the spermatic vein and have toxic effects on the spermatogenic epithelium of the testicles. Inhibit the endocrine function of the testicles. Varicose veins can damage the interstitial cells of the testicles, affect the secretion of testosterone, and thus affect spermatogenesis.

Modern medical research has shown that the effect of varicocele on testicular function is a gradual process, and the damage to testicular function is irreversible. Early conservative treatment with cold compresses or wearing tight underwear such as trochanteric scrotal support pants can reduce the impact on fertility. Even if there is no desire to have children, it is necessary to actively seek treatment to prevent testicular atrophy or affect sexual life. If varicocele is found in adolescence, conservative treatment should be adopted to avoid fertility risks in adulthood, and surgery may not be in time.

Varicose vein varicocele has the following four main effects on sperm:

1. When suffering from varicocele, the slow venous reflux will cause the temperature of the testicles to gradually rise. Under normal circumstances, the development and production of sperm is best completed under low temperature conditions below 35°C. Therefore, the rise in testicular temperature is bound to have a certain impact on male sperm.

2. Left varicocele may cause blood from the left renal vein to flow back into the spermatic vein, causing renal metabolic products and adrenal hormone-like substances to flow back into the testicles, leading to testicular poisoning or damage.

3. Inhibit the production of testosterone. Testosterone is an important substance for producing sperm and maintaining physiological functions. Therefore, when testosterone decreases, it will have a great impact on male physiological functions.

4. Varicose veins will affect the local blood circulation of the testicles, which will prevent the testicles from getting enough oxygen, which is very detrimental to sperm production and development.