Hydrocele is a type of swelling in the scrotum, the sac of skin that holds the testicles. This swelling usually occurs because of a buildup of fluid within the layers that line the testicles in the testicular pouch. Between the two layers lining the testicle and the inner aspect of the scrotum, there should always be a volume of fluid that helps the sliding between the layers and has a cushioning effect on small bumps. It occurs when fluid accumulates, either because excess fluid is reactively produced or because it is not reabsorbed in adequate quantity.
Hydrocele is usually painless, but causes discomfort due to the weight of the scrotum and sometimes irritation of the scrotal skin.
Hydrocele can occur in newborn babies and requires surgery to close the duct that communicates the peritoneum, i.e. the abdomen, with the scrotal cavity. There are also cases of hydrocele in adults that require intervention. Surgery in such a case consists of removing the fluid and modifying the testicular lining to prevent it from re-forming.
The hydrocele appears as a consequence of inflammation, trauma, infection or torsion of the testicle. The hydrocele by itself should not have a great impact on fertility, beyond the compression and the fact that the testicular temperature may vary, a cause that affects sperm production. However, the presence of associated pathology, which is ultimately what causes the hydrocele to form, can have an impact on the health of the male and severely affect fertility.
Our recommendation is that we periodically explore our genitals and that, at the slightest change that we notice, we consult a medical specialist. Prevention is key to avoid this type of pathology affecting fertility.
