[Medical Q&A] Do patients with varicocele need to wear stretch pants?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Zhuang Jintao, deputy chief physician, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University

Varicocele is a common disease of the male reproductive system, which is mainly manifested by abnormal expansion and tortuosity of the internal spermatic vein. Patients may experience scrotal swelling and pain. After being diagnosed with varicocele, doctors may recommend that patients wear supportive stretch shorts, but there are some things to note on this issue.

Wearing stretch pants can provide additional support for the scrotum, reduce the sagging and swinging of the scrotum when the patient is standing, thereby reducing the pressure on the spermatic vein, promoting local blood circulation, relieving the discomfort caused by varicose veins, and preventing the condition from further deteriorating. When choosing stretch pants, the size should be appropriate and the tightness should be appropriate. If it is too tight, it will compress the contents of the scrotum and affect blood circulation. If it is too loose, it will not provide support. In terms of material, it is necessary to choose stretch pants with good breathability and moisture absorption and perspiration to keep the local area dry and reduce the risk of infection. When resting in a supine position, it is recommended to take off the stretch pants or place a cushion under the scrotum to promote blood circulation and relieve pain and other discomfort. It should be noted that although stretch pants can relieve symptoms to a certain extent, it cannot replace other treatments. Moreover, the effect of wearing stretch pants will be different for different patients. If the symptoms worsen, appropriate treatment methods should be selected under the doctor's advice, such as drug treatment, surgical treatment, etc.