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'Bag of worms' testicle condition can harm your fertility — 20% of men have it
- Latest development: NICE now advises doctors to consider radiological or surgical treatment for men with varicoceles who want to conceive.
- Varicocele affects 15–20% of men and can impact fertility by heating the testicles and causing oxidative stress.
- Experts say varicoceles are a major puzzle in urology, with some men remaining fertile despite large varicoceles.
- Treatment options include microsurgery or embolisation, depending on the case and patient needs.
- Varicoceles are common but do not cause symptoms for many men; some experience pain or swelling.
- Some men with varicoceles may experience reduced testosterone or other testicular issues unless treated.
- Experts emphasize treatment should be considered alongside IVF decisions when addressing fertility.
- Guidance change reflects growing education on male fertility challenges.
- The article cites NICE as the source of updated guidelines in March 2026.
- The piece outlines extra approaches, such as embolisation, as a lighter alternative to surgery.
- The article notes the need for further diagnostic clarity on why varicoceles occur and vary in impact.
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