Ovarian Drilling (PCOD)
Nakshatra Clinic
Your Trusted Partner in the Journey to Parenthood
Ovarian Drilling (PCOD)
Overview
Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling (LOD) is a minimally invasive surgical option for selected women with PCOD/PCOS who have ovulation problems and have not responded to first‑line treatments (lifestyle changes and ovulation‑inducing medicines). LOD aims to restore more regular ovulation and improve the chances of natural or assisted conception.
About Ovarian Drilling (PCOD)
Ovarian Drilling (PCOD)
Irregular or absent ovulation despite weight optimization and medications (e.g., letrozole/clomiphene)
Intolerance or poor response to medicines
To reduce the need for higher‑dose fertility medications in subsequent cycles
When other causes of infertility have been evaluated and addressed
Anesthesia & Access: Performed under general anesthesia via small keyhole incisions on the abdomen.
Assessment: The surgeon inspects pelvic organs to rule out other issues (endometriosis, adhesions).
Drilling: Using controlled energy (diathermy), a few tiny punctures are made on each ovary’s surface to reduce androgen‑producing tissue and rebalance hormones.
Duration: Typically 30–60 minutes; most patients go home the same day or next day.
Improved ovulation frequency over the following months
Lower medication requirement in subsequent ovulation induction cycles
Potential reduction in ovarian hyperstimulation risk compared to high‑dose medications
Opportunity to treat coexisting conditions identified during laparoscopy
Adhesion formation: Rare but possible; meticulous technique aims to minimize this.
Ovarian reserve impact: Excessive drilling can reduce reserve; experienced surgeons use the least effective energy and punctures.
Usual surgical risks: bleeding, infection, anesthesia reactions (uncommon).
Most patients resume light activities within a few days.
Expect mild abdominal discomfort and shoulder tip pain (from gas used in laparoscopy) for 24–72 hours.
Follow wound care instructions and take prescribed medicines.
Your doctor will plan follow‑up to monitor cycles and guide timed intercourse or treatment.
Women already ovulating regularly
Those with significantly reduced ovarian reserve
Patients in whom non‑surgical options are likely to be equally or more beneficial
Ovulation often improves in the months following LOD, and many women conceive naturally or with minimal medication support. Results vary with age, body weight, hormone profile, and partner factors.
Lifestyle optimization: Weight management, nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress reduction
Medications: Letrozole/clomiphene, metformin (in selected patients)
Assisted Reproduction: Ovulation induction with IUI, or IVF in indicated cases
Preparing for Surgery
Pre‑anesthesia evaluation and necessary blood tests
Fasting guidelines and medication review
Arrange a companion for the day of surgery
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is ovarian drilling a cure for PCOD/PCOS?
PCOD/PCOS is a metabolic‑hormonal condition; LOD is not a cure but may improve ovulation and fertility in selected women.
Will my periods become regular after LOD?
Many women notice improved cycle regularity for months after the procedure, but responses vary.
Are the effects permanent?
Benefits can be significant but may wane over time. Your doctor will advise on the optimal window for trying to conceive.
Can LOD be combined with other fertility treatments?
Yes. After LOD, some patients respond better to lower doses of ovulation medicines, IUI, or IVF.
How soon can I try to conceive after LOD?
Your specialist will guide you, but many begin attempts in the first few cycles once recovery is complete.