Acoustic voice analysis in different menstrual cycle phases

Background: The female body is under the constant influence of sex hormones. In this case, the larynx is no exception—sex steroid hormone receptors are located on the vocal folds. Thus, during the menstrual cycle, the voice also experiences cyclical changes, which is particularly important for professional voice users. Today, the use of hormonal contraceptives is increasing; they suppress hormonal peaks and it may cause cyclical voice changes.

Aim: To analyse acoustic voice changes in women with a natural menstrual cycle and hormonal contraception users.

Methods: The voices of 15 females aged 21–28 years, including six females using hormonal contraception, were recorded at menstruation and late follicular and luteal phases. The menstrual cycle phases were determined using a calendar. Acoustic analysis was performed in the Praat software (6.4.21). The following parameters were studied: fundamental frequency, including the highest and the lowest pitch; voice intensity; perturbation measurements (jitter and shimmer); Harmonic-to-Noise-Ratio, and maximum phonation time.

Results: Women with a natural menstrual cycle had cyclical voice changes, including a lower voice quality during menstruation and a higher voice pitch in the late follicular phase. There are no voice changes in hormonal contraception users during the menstrual cycle.

Conclusion: The study proves the influence of sex hormones on acoustic voice parameters.