I was recently diagnosed with mild varicocele in my left testicle. My doctor says theres nothing they can do, but Ive noticed that going to the gym or doing certain workouts causes pain in my abdomen and testicle. I dont do heavy lifting, just weight-bearing and abs exercises. Could my gym routine be causing this?

Varicocele is usually caused by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, often referred to as the "pampiniform plexus." While heavy lifting exercises can potentially exacerbate varicocele, any form of physical activity that increases intra-abdominal pressure, such as weight-bearing and abs workouts, can also contribute to the development or worsening of varicocele. It is advisable to avoid activities that strain the abdominal muscles and increase pressure in the scrotum. To alleviate symptoms and reduce discomfort, you can consider wearing a scrotal support or compression underwear during physical activities. Additionally, you may benefit from taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen to manage any discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.