Ovarian torsion in pregnancy: what to know

Pregnancy can cause pelvic discomfort, nausea, and changes in the abdomen that overlap with torsion symptoms. An enlarged ovary, including one affected by a cyst, may be more likely to rotate around its supporting tissues. Torsion can threaten ovarian blood supply, so pregnancy does not make sudden one-sided pain something to monitor at home.

The care team may consider your gestational stage, vital signs, examination, ultrasound findings, and the baby's wellbeing. Ultrasound may not provide a definite answer in every case; ongoing symptoms still matter.

Contact your maternity unit or go to emergency care promptly for sudden one-sided pelvic or lower abdominal pain, especially with vomiting, faintness, fever, or worsening tenderness. Mention how far along the pregnancy is, the pain's side and onset, bleeding or fluid loss, and any known cyst.

If surgery is needed, the team weighs treatment of the ovary against pregnancy-specific considerations. A surgeon may discuss minimally invasive options, including [Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/laparoscopic-ovarian-cystectomy/) when a cyst is the likely cause.

Seek emergency help now for severe or persistent pelvic pain, repeated vomiting, collapse, heavy bleeding, fever, or reduced wellbeing during pregnancy. For general symptom context, [Pelvic Pain](/symptoms/pelvic-pain/) may help you prepare questions, but it cannot replace urgent assessment.

Ask which symptoms require immediate return, how ultrasound will be adapted for pregnancy, whether a cyst is present, and how possible surgery would protect your health and pregnancy.