I have had this for over a year and a half it was first diagnosed as only a cyst and that it should have gone away in 2-3 weeks but never did... i am worried about being infertile i am only 17 1/2. I have constant pain but have learned to ignore it.
Hi. The conditions you've described – a left epididymal head cyst, bilateral hydroceles, and left varicocele – can be associated with fertility issues, but they don't necessarily guarantee infertility.
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Epididymal Cyst: This is a fluid-filled sac in the epididymis (the tube that stores and carries sperm). Small cysts typically don't affect fertility. However, if the cyst is large, it might obstruct the passage of sperm.
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Bilateral Hydroceles: Hydroceles are fluid-filled sacs around a testicle, often resulting in swelling of the scrotum. While hydroceles themselves usually don't directly affect fertility, the underlying causes of hydrocele formation might have an impact.
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Varicocele: This is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, somewhat similar to varicose veins in the legs. A varicocele can impair sperm production and function, potentially affecting fertility. It's one of the most common reversible causes of male infertility.
The persistence of these conditions and the fact that you're experiencing constant pain are concerning. Pain, especially if it's ongoing and significant enough that you've had to learn to ignore it, indicates that a medical evaluation is necessary.
Regarding fertility, it's important to know that many conditions affecting the testicles and scrotum can potentially impact fertility, but each case is unique. Some men with these conditions maintain normal fertility, while others may experience difficulties.
Given your age and the duration of these conditions, it's crucial to seek further medical evaluation. A urologist or an andrologist (a specialist in male reproductive health) would be the best types of doctors to consult. They can provide a more detailed assessment, which might include physical examination, ultrasound imaging, and possibly semen analysis when you're older, to evaluate the impact on your fertility and to address the pain you're experiencing.
Good luck.