In brief
Varicocele is the most common reversible cause of male infertility, occurring in 35-40% of men with primary infertility. The condition causes venous blood pooling, which increases testicular temperature and promotes oxidative stress, which inhibits sperm production. Treatment of varicocele often results in significant improvements in sperm concentration, motility, and DNA integrity.
The Connection Between Varicocele and Infertility
Varicocele is the leading correctable cause of male infertility. Among men struggling to conceive their first child, about 40% have a varicocele. For those who have fathered a child before but are now struggling (secondary infertility), that number jumps to 80%.
How it affects fertility:
- Temperature Regulation: The pooled blood raises the temperature of the testicles, which is “toxic” to healthy sperm production.
- Oxidative Stress: Poor drainage allows metabolic waste products to build up, damaging sperm DNA.
- Hormonal Impact: It can interfere with testosterone production within the testicle.
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Dr. Adam FarkasDirector, Vascular Interventional Radiology Unit and Vascular Anomalies Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel. Chair, Israel Society of Interventional Radiology. Updated October 15, 2026.Medically reviewed by Dr. Adam Farkas, MD, October 15, 2026.