The influence of varicocele on parameters of fertility in a large group of men presenting to infertility clinics. World Health Organization.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the role of varicocele in male infertility.

DESIGN

Data analysis of a large population of couples who were systematically investigated for infertility.

SETTINGS

Couples were recruited in 34 World Health Organization collaborating centers in 24 countries.

PATIENTS

Nine thousand thirty-four men presenting as partner of infertile couples.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Physical findings, semen characteristics, coincidental pathology, and spontaneous pregnancies.

RESULTS

Varicocele was found in 25.4% of men with abnormal semen, compared with 11.7% of men with normal semen. It was accompanied by decreased testicular volume, impaired sperm quality, and decline of Leydig cell secretion. Spontaneous pregnancies were as frequent in couples in whom the men did or did not have varicocele.

CONCLUSION

Varicocele is clearly associated with impairment of testicular function and infertility.