Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
As we are trying to conceive, we have been trying for the past four months. I am undergoing a series of tests as suggested by a urologist. Please find the attached report.
The urologist mentioned that there is no varicocele based on the ultrasound report. However, I noticed that the right-side Valsalva maneuver value is 2.5 mm, which is confusing to me. I have a few questions.
I am worried about my upcoming sperm analysis test. My hormone levels are normal. I do not smoke and drink very occasionally. I am taking multivitamins and antioxidant supplements.
Please provide your guidance.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have read your query and understand your concern.
Based on your report (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), I would like to clarify a few points to help you better understand your condition.
Regarding varicocele, it generally needs to be grade two or above to have a significant impact on semen parameters. Grades zero to one are usually not considered clinically important and, in most cases, do not affect sperm quality. Therefore, there is no major concern related to this finding.
As for the cyst, if you are not experiencing significant pain, it usually does not require treatment. In most cases, such cysts do not affect semen quality or cause blockage, which should be reassuring.
At present, there is no need to worry unnecessarily. It is best to proceed with the recommended semen analysis test. Once the report is available, it can be reviewed to decide the next steps in a more informed manner.
It is also good to note that you do not smoke and are taking supplements regularly, which are positive factors for reproductive health. Based on this, a normal semen report can be expected.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for your reply.
I do not have significant pain, but sometimes I feel mild discomfort on the lower left side, which is not exactly testicular pain.
That is why the urologist suggested an ultrasound to rule out any issues, and the results were mostly normal. No treatment was advised. The pain is occasional and comes and goes.
I am mainly worried about possible blockage in the vas deferens or the ejaculatory ducts that carry sperm, which could affect sperm parameters. I usually ejaculate around 5 to 7 ml (milliliter).
I also have phimosis and am planning to get it surgically corrected soon. Can a tight foreskin cause pressure on nerves and reduce semen ejaculation during intercourse?
What could be other reasons for low sperm count or motility if a grade zero or one varicocele does not have much impact?
I also tried a home water test and observed that about 60 percent of the semen floats for a few minutes, while the rest sinks. I read that this may indicate live sperm.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
If the pain is mild and occurs occasionally, there is usually no need to worry.
If it becomes persistent or bothersome, you may take Aceclofenac with Paracetamol twice a day after food, as advised by a doctor.
A semen volume above 2.5 ml (milliliters) is considered normal. If there were a blockage, the volume would typically be very low or absent. Drink adequate water and maintain a protein-rich diet to support semen production.
Phimosis does not affect semen production or ejaculation. Even in severe cases, ejaculation can occur normally.
If you can pass urine normally, ejaculation is also generally not affected. Other possible causes of low sperm count or motility include:
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Raveendran S R
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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