Ovarian Torsion Requires Emergency Treatment

Ovarian torsion occurs when an ovary becomes twisted around the tissues that support it. For some people, the fallopian tube may also become twisted. Ovarian torsion is a painful condition that cuts off blood supply to these organs. It is considered an emergency because it can result in the loss of the ovary if it is not treated promptly. It is unclear how this condition occurs, but it is a severe, yet uncommon, diagnosis.

The symptoms of ovarian torsion can present themselves suddenly and without warning. Symptoms of this condition include:

• Severe, sudden pain in the lower abdomen
• Cramping
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Tenderness in the lower abdomen

*Ovarian torsion never occurs without pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.

While most people cannot ignore the symptoms of ovarian torsion because they are so severe, some women who are more familiar with discomfort are apt to do so. Ovarian torsion is commonly diagnosed late in women who suffer from ruptured ovarian cysts. When an ovarian cyst ruptures, it is incredibly painful because 1) the rupture occurs after intense swelling and pressure, and 2) all of the acids that were inside the cyst spill out into the body. For women who experience ovarian cysts every so often, they may mistake their pain as another cyst rupturing when it is ovarian torsion causing the pain.

It is always crucial that you contact your physician immediately if you are experiencing any type of acute, severe pain. Even if you *think* that you know what it is, you could be wrong – and the consequences could be severe. If you have ovarian torsion, emergency surgery will be required to alleviate your pain and to try to save your ovary. The loss of an ovary can be a devastating outcome for women who hope to conceive.

If you have questions about ovarian torsion, ovarian cysts, or general gynecological questions, please contact Marietta OB/GYN Affiliates, P.A. We specialize in a wide variety of gynecological conditions, and we offer compassionate and thorough care.