Ovarian torsion is a medical condition that requires urgent attention, as it can significantly affect a woman’s reproductive health if not treated promptly. At Summit Women’s & Wellness Medical Group in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, patient education about such conditions is an important part of helping women recognize warning signs and seek timely care. Ovarian torsion occurs when an ovary twists around the ligaments that hold it in place, potentially cutting off its blood supply. Because this condition can mimic other causes of abdominal pain, understanding its symptoms and underlying risk factors can make a crucial difference in early recognition.
What is Ovarian Torsion?
Ovarian torsion happens when an ovary rotates on its supporting tissues, often due to an ovarian cyst or mass that adds weight or imbalance. This twisting can restrict blood flow, leading to tissue damage or loss of ovarian function if untreated. The condition may occur at any age, including during adolescence or after menopause, though it most frequently affects women of reproductive age. In some cases, both the ovary and fallopian tube may twist, further complicating the situation.
The severity of ovarian torsion depends on how long the ovary remains twisted and whether blood flow is completely or partially obstructed. When circulation is cut off for too long, the tissue can become necrotic, requiring surgical removal. Because the symptoms can develop suddenly, prompt medical attention is essential to preserve ovarian health and fertility potential.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Ovarian Torsion
The hallmark symptom of ovarian torsion is sudden, severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain that typically occurs on one side. This pain may come in waves, intensifying and subsiding intermittently as the ovary twists and untwists. In many cases, the pain may be accompanied by other signs, which include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal tenderness or swelling
- Low-grade fever
- Pain that radiates to the back or thigh
Because these symptoms can resemble other conditions such as appendicitis, kidney stones, or gastrointestinal issues, accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI. It’s important to note that the pain of ovarian torsion should never be ignored. The faster it is identified, the higher the likelihood that the ovary can be saved.
Causes and Risk Factors
Ovarian torsion is often triggered by an imbalance or structural change that makes the ovary more mobile. Ovarian cysts or masses larger than five centimeters are among the most common causes, as their weight can cause the ovary to twist. Hormonal treatments that stimulate ovulation, such as fertility medications, may also increase the risk by enlarging the ovaries. In some cases, anatomical differences—like longer ligaments or the presence of benign growths—may predispose women to torsion.
Pregnancy can also elevate the risk, especially during the early stages when hormonal changes influence ovarian size and function. Additionally, previous pelvic surgeries or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may increase the likelihood. While not always preventable, understanding these risk factors can encourage women to be vigilant about sudden abdominal pain and report concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.
The Importance of Early Recognition
Timely recognition of ovarian torsion is critical because delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications, including ovarian necrosis or loss of fertility. Once torsion is suspected, medical imaging can confirm the diagnosis, and emergency surgical intervention is typically required to untwist the ovary and restore blood flow. Early detection greatly improves the chances of saving the ovary and maintaining normal reproductive function.
Awareness is key—many women may overlook or dismiss pelvic pain as a normal part of their menstrual cycle. However, any sudden, sharp, or persistent pain should prompt evaluation. For women in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Summit Women’s & Wellness Medical Group emphasizes that understanding conditions like ovarian torsion empowers patients to take proactive steps toward protecting their health and well-being.
Resources
- Huchon, C., & Fauconnier, A. (2010). Adnexal torsion: a literature review. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology.
- Huang, C., Hong, M., Ding, D. C. (2017). Ovarian Torsion: Clinical and Ultrasonographic Features. Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
- Nichols, D. H., & Julian, P. J. (1985). Torsion of the Adnexa. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology.