Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling

Women with PCOS usually have ovaries with a thick outer layer. The ovaries make more testosterone. High testosterone levels can lead to irregular menstrual periods, acne, and extra body hair. Ovarian drilling works by breaking through the thick outer surface and lowering the amount of testosterone made by the ovaries. This can help the ovaries release an egg each month and start regular monthly menstrual cycles. This may make it easier to get pregnant. The goal of this procedure is to restore a woman’s menstrual cycle and help her ovulate. About 50% of women get pregnant in the first year after surgery.

Ovarian drilling is a one-time treatment, unlike fertility medicines that have to be taken every month. Having twins or triplets is not as likely with ovarian drilling as with fertility medicines. However, the benefits of ovarian drilling are not permanent. Ovulation and menstrual cycles may become irregular again over time. 

The procedure of laparoscopic ovarian drilling is not that complicated. A minimally invasive surgery called laparoscopy is used for ovarian drilling. A thin, lighted telescope (laparoscope) is put through a small surgical cut (incision) near the belly button. A tiny camera is used to see the ovaries. The surgeon inserts tools through other tiny incisions in the lower belly and makes very small holes in the ovaries. This helps lower the amount of testosterone made by the ovaries. 

Ovarian drilling will not fix the problems with irregular periods and ovulation, even temporarily. However, ovarian drilling can help a woman respond better to fertility medicines.