What is a varicocele?
A male with a varicocele has enlargement of the veins in the scrotum. Veins are thin-walled vessels that return blood to the heart. Tiny valves inside the veins prevent blood flow from reversing direction. Damage to valves in the scrotal veins allows blood to collect in the veins, causing the scrotal veins to swell. About 20 percent of adult men develop a varicocele.

What are the symptoms of a varicocele?
A varicocele rarely causes symptoms. Symptoms of a varicocele may include a soft mass inside the scrotum, scrotum swelling, and mild scrotum pain.

How does the doctor treat a varicocele?
Most varicoceles do not require treatment. Treatment for severe varicoceles may include surgery to remove the varicocele.