Don't wait any longer, conceive in time: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on semen parameters after varicocelectomy

Abstract

Abstract Background Varicocelectomy was considered to be beneficial to patients with varicocele-related infertility. However, there are only a few researchers who have explored the relationship between better timing and postoperative semen improvement in patients. Methods We conducted this meta-analysis by enrolling published prospective studies to find out the best waiting time after varicocelectomy to wait for better improvement of semen quality. An extensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to identify eligible studies. The included studies were then analyzed comprehensively using STATA software and standardized mean differences (SMDs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results Our comprehensive analysis showed that after varicocelectomy, follow-up results within 3 months or longer showed a significant improvement in semen parameters compared to the preoperative period. Notably, no further improvement in semen parameters was observed when the follow-up period reached six months or longer (semen volume: WMD: − 0.07 (− 0.29, 0.16); sperm concentration: WMD: − 1.33 (− 2.33, − 4.99); sperm motility: WMD: 2.31 (− 0.55, 5.18); sperm morphology: WMD: 1.29 (− 0.66, 3.24); sperm total motile count: WMD: 3.95 (− 6.28, 14.19)). Conclusions Three months after varicocelectomy may be the optimal time for semen parameters compared to six months or even longer, which means it is also the preferable time for conception. However, more well-designed prospective studies are needed in the future to validate our conclusion.