What should you know about cyst twisted ovary?

Ovarian torsion occurs when an ovary rotates around the tissues that support it and carry its blood vessels. An ovarian cyst or other enlarged ovarian structure can make twisting more likely. Reduced blood flow can injure the ovary, so symptoms should not be watched at home.

Pain is often sudden and may be severe, usually on one side of the lower abdomen or pelvis. Nausea and vomiting can accompany it. Pain may sometimes come and go if the ovary twists and untwists, but temporary relief does not rule out a serious problem.

If torsion is possible, seek emergency medical assessment immediately. Tell the team when the pain began, which side hurts, whether you have vomited, and whether you know of an ovarian cyst. Avoid driving yourself if the pain is severe or you feel faint.

Assessment may include an examination and pelvic imaging, but tests cannot always settle the diagnosis. A gynaecology team may recommend urgent keyhole surgery to untwist the ovary and address the cyst. The exact procedure depends on findings and your circumstances.

Go to an emergency department for abrupt one-sided pelvic or abdominal pain, especially with nausea, vomiting, faintness, fever, or a swollen or tender abdomen. Symptoms after known cyst pain deserve the same caution.

Call for emergency transport if you cannot stand safely, feel weak or faint, or have severe worsening pain. Do not wait for a scheduled scan or routine appointment when these symptoms are present.

Ask whether torsion is still a concern, what the imaging showed, whether surgery is recommended, and how the cyst will be managed. If surgery is discussed, ask about ovarian preservation, recovery, warning symptoms, and follow-up.