Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research Vol.55 247-261 February 2012. doi:10.1044/1092-4388(2011/10-0348)
© American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
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Article

Effects of the Menstrual Cycle and Oral Contraception on Singers' Pitch Control

Filipa M. B. Lãa
Johan Sundbergb
David M. Howardc
Pedro Sa-Coutod
Adelaide Freitasd
a University of Aveiro, INET-MD, Portugal
b School of Computer Science and Communication, KTH, Stockholm, Sweden
c University of York, United Kingdom
d Center for Research and Development in Mathematics and Applications (CIDMA), University of Aveiro, Portugal

Correspondence to Filipa M. B. Lã: filipa.la{at}ua.pt

Purpose: Difficulties with intonation and vibrato control during the menstrual cycle have been reported by singers; however, this phenomenon has not yet been systematically investigated.

Method: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial assessing effects of the menstrual cycle and use of a combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) on pitch control in singing is presented. Audio-electrolaryngograph recordings were made and blood samples were taken from 9 singers in each of the 3 phases of the menstrual cycle both under the placebo and the OCP conditions for a total of 6 months. Participants sang an exercise consisting of an ascending octave followed by a descending major triad, starting on pitches F4 and B4. Pitch control was assessed in terms of the octave's deviations from pure intonation and of the vibrato rate and extent.

Results: Significant differences were found between the 3 phases of the cycle regarding octave size only for pitch F5 during OCP use. Significant vibrato rate differences between placebo and OCP conditions were found only for pitch F5.

Conclusion: OCP use may have an effect on pitch control in singers. Possible explanations point to a complex interaction between hormonal milieu and pitch control, enhancing the need for longitudinal studies.

KEY WORDS: intonation, vibrato rate, vibrato extent, menstrual cycle, oral contraceptive pill


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