[1] The termination of the two gonadal veins in an individual is usually asymmetrical, with the left one draining into the left renal vein, and the right one draining into the inferior vena cava.

[2] The right gonadal vein typically empties directly into the (right anterolateral aspect of) inferior vena cava, joining it at an acute angle, some 2 cm inferior to the ipsilateral renal vein.

Occasionally (in about 6% of individuals[2]), it empties into the ipsilateral renal vein[3]: 1144  like its contralateral fellow.

[2] In the lower abdomen, there may be multiple vessels instead of a single gonadal vein.

[3]: 1144 Prolonged venous insufficiency of gonadal veins may lead to an increase in lower limb varicose vein formation in both sexes.