Ovarian torsion: how quickly can tissue be affected?

Torsion happens when an ovary and sometimes its supporting tube twist. The twist can first obstruct venous drainage and then limit arterial inflow. Without adequate oxygen, ovarian tissue can become injured and may eventually die; there is no dependable home timetable for when that happens. Pain can also come and go if the ovary twists and partly untwists, so temporary relief does not prove the problem has resolved.

A scan may support the diagnosis, but a normal-looking blood-flow signal does not always exclude torsion. Clinicians combine your symptoms, examination and imaging when deciding how urgently to act.

If torsion is suspected, contact emergency services or go to an emergency department. Avoid eating or drinking until a clinician advises you, because an urgent procedure may be considered. Do not drive yourself if pain, vomiting or faintness makes travel unsafe.

Treatment commonly involves urgent keyhole surgery to untwist the ovary and assess its condition. A cyst may need separate treatment; information about [Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/laparoscopic-ovarian-cystectomy/) can help explain that type of procedure.

Seek emergency care for sudden one-sided pelvic or lower-abdominal pain, especially with nausea, vomiting, fever, marked tenderness, dizziness or fainting. Severe pain after a known ovarian cyst also warrants immediate assessment. Call for help if you become too unwell to travel safely.

Ask whether torsion remains possible when imaging is inconclusive, what procedure is being considered, and how the team will assess ovarian tissue. You can also ask what symptoms should prompt you to return after treatment.