Can Varicocele Surgery Restore Natural Fertility After Low Sperm Count?

Varicocele in the spermatic vein region can lead to infertility?

Hello doctor, I had a sperm analysis done in early February and found that I only had 200,000 sperm.
A few months later, the count decreased further, and during the last test, there were no sperm at all.
I later discovered that I have a varicocele.
I had surgery last week.
Is it possible for me to return to natural conception? Thank you.
Additionally, the doctor performed a testicular biopsy; will this affect sperm production?

Wei Ge, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/31

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

If there are no other issues, there is certainly a chance for recovery.
The physician performs a biopsy to diagnose any potential problems, which will not affect the production, so there is no need to worry.

Reply Date: 2015/08/31

More Info

Varicocele surgery can indeed restore natural fertility in some cases, particularly when the underlying issue is related to the varicocele itself. A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, which can lead to increased temperature and impaired blood flow to the testicles, negatively affecting sperm production and quality.
In your situation, where you initially had a very low sperm count that eventually led to the absence of sperm, the varicocele may have been a significant contributing factor. After undergoing varicocele repair surgery, many men experience improvements in their sperm parameters, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. Studies have shown that approximately 30-70% of men who undergo this surgery see an improvement in their sperm count and overall fertility potential. However, the extent of recovery can vary based on individual factors, including the severity of the varicocele, the duration of the condition, and any other underlying health issues.

Regarding the testicular biopsy that was performed during your surgery, it is primarily a diagnostic procedure to assess the health of the testicular tissue and to rule out other potential causes of infertility, such as obstructive azoospermia or testicular failure. Generally, a biopsy does not adversely affect sperm production in the long term. The testicles are capable of producing sperm continuously, and as long as the underlying testicular function is intact, sperm production should resume post-surgery.

It is important to note that while surgery can improve sperm production, it may take some time for sperm counts to normalize. Typically, it can take several months for the body to recover and for sperm production to improve after varicocele surgery. Therefore, it is advisable to wait for at least three to six months post-surgery before conducting another semen analysis to assess the changes in sperm parameters.

In addition to surgical intervention, there are several lifestyle modifications and medical treatments that can further enhance sperm quality and increase the chances of natural conception. These include:
1. Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially Vitamin C and E), and minerals (like zinc and selenium) can improve sperm health.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and improve hormonal balance, which is beneficial for sperm production.

3. Avoiding Toxins: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals, can help protect sperm health.

4. Limiting Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Both alcohol and smoking have been linked to decreased sperm quality and should be minimized or avoided.

5. Stress Management: High levels of stress can negatively impact hormone levels and sperm production, so finding effective ways to manage stress is crucial.

6. Medical Treatments: If necessary, medications or supplements may be prescribed by your healthcare provider to address specific deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.

In conclusion, while varicocele surgery has the potential to restore natural fertility, it is essential to have realistic expectations and to follow up with your healthcare provider for ongoing assessments and support. With the right approach and time, many men can achieve successful natural conception after addressing varicocele-related issues.

Similar Q&A

Can Surgery Restore Fertility After Testicular Atrophy Due to Varicocele?

Hello, during the premarital health check, it was found that my fiancé has azoospermia. After consulting a urologist, the doctor mentioned something about varicocele causing severe testicular atrophy, but he does not experience any pain. If he undergoes surgical treatment, will h...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, if testicular atrophy is caused by varicocele and surgery is performed, the recovery of function will depend on the extent and duration of the impact. However, if surgery is not performed, the condition will only worsen. Therefore, I personally recommend that if the clinic...

Improving Sperm Count: Surgery and Hormone Therapy for Varicocele in Men

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask, my husband and I have been married for a year and a half without getting pregnant. As a result, our relatives suggested that we get checked. We have both seen doctors for examinations; my results are normal, but my husband’s sperm analysis showe...

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
Varicocele must be treated surgically. For low male hormone levels, it is recommended to test for hormones related to the anterior pituitary gland and female hormones, rather than directly supplementing them. Online consultations cannot replace an in-person evaluation and physica...

Varicocele and Infertility: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights

Hello Dr. Lin: We are experiencing infertility. I underwent laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis on January 18. My husband has a sperm count of 2500, with only 8% motility, and he has been diagnosed with varicocele. The doctor has recommended surgery, while my doctor has sugges...

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology
Hello Ms. Wu: Simple varicocele should not result in the sperm analysis findings your husband has. If a varicocele ligation surgery is performed, the likelihood of achieving pregnancy may be quite low, and considering artificial insemination might be more feasible. 1. Generally, ...

Should I Consider Surgery for Varicocele with Poor Sperm Quality?

Hello, Doctor. I recently underwent a pre-marital health check and found that my sperm morphology was 20 (it seems it should be over 30). Therefore, I went for another sperm analysis two months later, but the results were still abnormal and even lower. I also discovered a slight ...

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
In general, if there are plans to conceive, surgical treatment for varicocele is recommended.