You're not asked to diagnose — only to know when the pain is "a big story". The rule: sudden severe one-sided pain, or pain with dizziness, fever or vomiting, needs assessment today not tomorrow. Important possibilities: ovarian torsion (an hours-level emergency for the ovary), cyst rupture, ectopic pregnancy, appendicitis, kidney stone.

In short — what to do

  1. No strong painkillers masking the picture before examination — paracetamol is fine.
  2. Nothing to eat or drink if severe (surgery possible).
  3. A home pregnancy test if even theoretically possible.

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Urgent ultrasound settles the cause of acute lower abdominal pain
Urgent ultrasound settles the cause of acute lower abdominal pain
The full details

Questions that light the way (prepare the answers)

  • Where exactly, and does it radiate? When did it start and how (gradual or knife-like)?
  • Where are you in your cycle? Any chance of pregnancy? (home test first, always).
  • Any vomiting, fever, urinary burning, or unusual discharge?
  • Similar pain before? Known ovarian cysts?

Until the assessment

  1. No strong painkillers masking the picture before examination — paracetamol is fine.
  2. Nothing to eat or drink if severe (surgery possible).
  3. A home pregnancy test if even theoretically possible.

ER immediately if

  • Sudden knife-like one-sided pain with nausea — ovarian torsion cannot wait.
  • Pain + dizziness/fainting or pallor.
  • Pain + fever and chills, or an abdomen hardening to touch.
  • Pain with known pregnancy or a late period.

One moment

A twisted ovary is saved in hours, not days — sudden severe one-sided pain in a woman always deserves an urgent ultrasound, even if it turns out to be "just a cyst".

This content is for general health education only and is not medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 998.

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