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Fundamental Frequency Variations and Oral Contraceptive Pill Use
Introduction to Fundamental Frequency (f₀) and Menstrual Cycle
Fundamental frequency (f₀) refers to the lowest frequency of a periodic waveform and is a key parameter in the acoustical analysis of speech. Variations in f₀ can be influenced by hormonal changes, particularly those associated with the menstrual cycle. Research has shown that concentrations of sex steroid hormones—estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone—can affect vocal symptoms during premenstrual and menstrual phases.
Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phases on f₀
A study investigated the variations in f₀ and related parameters across different phases of the menstrual cycle—menstrual, follicular, and luteal—using electrolaryngographic recordings and blood samples from nine healthy females. The results indicated that speaking f₀ (SFF), its standard deviation, and maximum f₀ were significantly different between the phases of the menstrual cycle when no oral contraceptive pill (OCP) was used. Specifically, the menstrual phase exhibited the lowest values of these parameters.
Stabilizing Effect of Oral Contraceptive Pills on f₀
The same study also examined the effects of a combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) on these vocal parameters. It was found that the use of OCPs had a stabilizing effect on the voice, particularly in terms of f₀ and its related parameters. Maximum and minimum f₀ values were significantly different between placebo and OCP use during the menstrual and follicular phases, respectively. This suggests that OCPs can mitigate the fluctuations in f₀ caused by hormonal changes across the menstrual cycle.
Broader Implications of Hormonal Influence on Vocal Parameters
The findings underscore the broader implications of hormonal influences on vocal parameters. Fluctuations in sex steroid hormones across the menstrual cycle have a more pronounced effect on f₀ in speech than a specific hormonal concentration. This highlights the complex interplay between hormonal cycles and vocal characteristics, which can be stabilized through the use of OCPs.
Conclusion
In summary, the menstrual cycle significantly affects fundamental frequency variations in speech, with the menstrual phase showing the lowest values. The use of oral contraceptive pills appears to stabilize these variations, suggesting a potential benefit for individuals experiencing vocal symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations. Understanding these dynamics can be crucial for professionals in fields such as speech therapy and endocrinology.
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