10 Fast Facts about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

9. Quit Smoking

Studies have shown that women who smoke cigarettes have a higher level of androgens in their system. These are the pesky hormones responsible for most of the physical symptoms of PCOS, including excessive hair growth and acne. Androgens also contribute to weight gain. While quitting smoking won't make all of the symptoms go away, but it'll most likely lower the severity and frequency of the symptoms. Quitting smoking lowers your risk of cardiovascular complications with PCOS, and reduces the risk of contracting certain cancers. Research connects fertility problems with smoking tobacco which may contribute to the symptoms brought on by PCOS.