A deepening voice in females can be a noticeable change. The human voice is produced by the vibration of vocal cords within the larynx, or voice box. These structures are sensitive to various influences, leading to shifts in vocal pitch and quality. Understanding these factors can help clarify why a female’s voice might become deeper.
Normal Physiological Changes
Voice changes are a natural part of the human aging process, starting during puberty. During female puberty, the larynx grows, and the vocal cords thicken and lengthen, causing the voice to drop by approximately three tones. This process stabilizes by around age 17.
Beyond adolescence, changes continue as a person ages. The voice box mechanisms can lose flexibility, and vocal cord muscles may lose mass, leading to vocal fatigue. These age-related changes, sometimes referred to as presbyphonia, can result in a lower pitch, reduced volume, and decreased vocal endurance in women.
Hormonal Influences
Hormonal shifts can impact a female’s voice. During menopause, declining estrogen levels and a relative increase in androgens can cause the vocal cords to swell, leading to a deeper, drier, or hoarser voice.
Certain hormonal medications can also influence vocal pitch. Testosterone therapy can lead to a permanent lowering of the voice. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder characterized by elevated androgen levels, including testosterone, is another condition that can cause voice deepening. A high percentage of individuals with PCOS experience voice deepening, along with other vocal symptoms like vocal fatigue.
Medical Conditions and Lifestyle Factors
Various medical conditions and lifestyle choices can contribute to a deeper female voice. Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), are known to affect vocal cord function. Low thyroid hormone levels can lead to fluid buildup, muscle weakness, and nerve inflammation in the vocal cords, causing hoarseness, vocal fatigue, and a deepening of the voice.
Neurological conditions can impact the nerves controlling the vocal cords, potentially leading to vocal cord paralysis. Growths on the vocal cords, such as nodules, polyps, or cysts, can also alter voice quality and depth. These growths often result from vocal overuse or misuse, like yelling or prolonged talking. Lifestyle factors such as smoking can also lead to vocal changes, including a specific type of vocal cord polyp called polypoid corditis. Chronic voice misuse, like excessive yelling or straining, can also cause inflammation and damage to the vocal cords, affecting vocal pitch.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Medical evaluation is recommended if a female’s voice deepens suddenly, persists, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional if the voice change lasts longer than three to four weeks, especially if there is also throat pain. Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty swallowing, breathing issues, or if the voice change significantly impacts daily life or professional activities. A doctor may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist for a thorough examination of your vocal cords and larynx.