Varicocele Grades Explained: Mild vs. Severe Cases
If you’ve been diagnosed with a varicocele, you might be wondering what your grade means and how it could affect your health or ability to have children. Varicoceles are enlarged veins in the scrotum — similar to varicose veins in the legs — and they’re a common cause of male infertility.
At his practice in Chattanooga, Dr. Anand Shridharani — a board-certified, fellowship-trained urologist specializing in male reproductive and prosthetic urology — offers advanced care for varicoceles rooted in patient education and individualized treatment. His focus on the latest research and techniques makes him a trusted resource for men’s reproductive and sexual wellness in Tennessee.
Understanding varicocele grades can help you make informed decisions about solutions and next steps.
What Are the Different Varicocele Grades?
Varicoceles are categorized into three clinical grades, based on how noticeable and palpable the veins are during a physical exam:
- Grade 1 (Mild): The varicocele is small and only detected during a Valsalva maneuver (bearing down as if having a bowel movement).
- Grade 2 (Moderate): The varicocele is moderately sized and can be felt without a Valsalva maneuver, but is not visible.
- Grade 3 (Severe): The varicocele is large enough to be visibly noticeable through the scrotal skin and easily palpable.
Ultrasound imaging may also detect subclinical varicoceles, which aren’t visible during a physical exam but may still influence fertility.
How Do Varicocele Grades Impact Symptoms and Fertility?
The grade of a varicocele doesn’t always correspond with symptom severity. Some men with Grade 3 varicoceles don’t even realize it, while others with a Grade 1 may report testicular discomfort. However, higher-grade varicoceles are more likely to:
- Be associated with testicular pain or a heavy sensation
- Lower sperm quality and quantity
- Cause testicular shrinkage (atrophy)
If you’re trying to conceive and have an abnormal semen analysis, even a mild varicocele may be contributing to the issue.
When Is Treatment Recommended?
Medical intervention is generally advised if a varicocele is:
- Causing pain
- Affecting sperm quality
- Leading to testicular atrophy
- Present in an adolescent with testicular growth issues
Microsurgical varicocelectomy is generally considered the most effective approach and offers high success rates for symptom relief and fertility improvement.
Seek Expert Varicocele Treatment in Chattanooga
Ready to take control of your reproductive health? Contact Dr. Anand Shridharani in Chattanooga, TN, at 423-778-4MEN (4636) to discuss your options for varicocele treatment and long-term wellness.
