The Conductor’s Journal: World Menopause Day – How Menopause Can Affect Your Voice

As singers, we may notice changes in our voices during menopause, and it’s important to acknowledge that these shifts are completely natural. While some changes can be challenging, they are all manageable with the right techniques and knowledge.

The growing awareness around menopause in recent years has been long overdue, and transformative. We’re finally developing a better understanding of how this significant life phase impacts the minds and bodies of women around the world. And as part of this progress, there is now more recognition of how menopause can affect the voice, which is obviously especially relevant for singers.

One of the key hormonal shifts during menopause is the reduction in oestrogen, which can affect the vocal folds. Oestrogen helps maintain the elasticity of the mucous membranes, including those in the larynx. As oestrogen levels drop, you might experience a loss of flexibility in your voice, particularly in the higher registers. The vocal folds may also thin, resulting in a lighter, thinner sound in certain parts of your range. This thinning can make it more difficult to produce a rich, resonant tone or sustain long notes as you once did.

Everyone’s experience varies, but some other common symptoms include throat dryness and a lower vocal range. You might find your voice feeling huskier or just less agile, with those higher notes needing more effort. These changes can be frustrating, especially for those who rely on their voice for professional or recreational singing.

The respiratory system is another area that undergoes changes with ageing. Muscles that support breathing, such as the diaphragm, might become weaker, affecting breath control — wish is a crucial element of vocal technique. You might find yourself running out of breath more quickly or struggling to maintain vocal stamina during long performances.

But thankfully these changes absolutely do not mark the end of your singing journey. Many singers maintain or even enhance their vocal abilities through relatively minor adjustments. Hydration is key; as menopause can intensify dryness then keeping the vocal folds lubricated by drinking water and using a humidifier is essential. Vocal exercises that promote flexibility and breath control are also very beneficial for sustaining tone and range.

Breath work becomes especially important during this stage of life. Improving breath management and fitness through exercises like yoga or Pilates can help maintain overall stamina. Reducing tension in the neck and shoulders is also vital, as it can offset the strain that ageing muscles might place on your voice. These activities will contribute not only to vocal health but also to your overall well-being.

If your voice feels strained, seeking professional support is a good step. Working with a vocal coach can be invaluable—sound technique becomes even more important at this stage, as it enables you to continue singing in a healthy, sustainable way. Exploring different vocal styles (cross-training) can also keep your voice versatile and resilient.

It’s also important to consult a doctor or specialist if the changes in your voice feel significant or overwhelming. Hormonal therapies or other medical interventions may well be an option, depending on what’s right for you. Many choir members may be facing similar changes, so please don’t suffer in silence. There’s help and advice out there; you are absolutely not alone.

Remember, that much like you, your voice is adaptable. Be patient, and embrace the changes. While your range or tone might shift, your ability to convey emotion and connect with an audience only deepens with time. This new phase of your singing journey is an opportunity to explore different repertoire, experiment with vocal styles, and find joy in what your voice can still offer. Menopause is not the end of your singing career; it’s simply the beginning of another chapter in your lifelong relationship with your voice.


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