Ovarian torsion caused by a cyst: what should you know?

A cyst is a fluid-filled or tissue-containing growth in or on the ovary. When it changes the ovary’s size or weight, the ovary may move and twist around its supporting tissues. This can restrict blood flow and cause ovarian torsion. Not every cyst leads to torsion, and torsion can sometimes occur without a known cyst, so a cyst history is useful but cannot predict what current pain means.

The pain may begin suddenly on one side and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or tenderness. See the [Pelvic Pain](/symptoms/pelvic-pain/) resource for a broader explanation of pelvic pain patterns.

A known cyst does not mean every ache is torsion, but sudden or escalating pain should not be monitored casually. Contact urgent care and describe the cyst’s known location, recent scan findings, pain onset, vomiting, and any pregnancy possibility. Clinicians may perform an examination and ultrasound, then decide whether observation, surgery, or another treatment is appropriate. When torsion is suspected, an operation may untwist the ovary and remove or treat the cyst when suitable. [Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/laparoscopic-ovarian-cystectomy/) explains laparoscopic cyst removal.

Seek emergency help for sudden severe one-sided pelvic pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, fever, a rigid or very tender abdomen, or pain that comes in waves and keeps returning. New pain after a cyst has been found deserves prompt advice even if it later settles. Do not wait for a scheduled scan when symptoms are acute.

What type and location of cyst was seen? Could its size or position affect torsion risk? Which symptoms require emergency review? If surgery is needed, could the ovary and cyst be treated in the same procedure?