What is gender-affirming voice therapy?
What is gender-affirming voice therapy?
Gender-affirming voice therapy is a form of speech therapy. The goal is to help a person craft a voice that feels comfortable and authentic to themselves. ( Zackary Drucker/The Gender Spectrum Collection)
What is gender affirmation?
Gender-affirming care, as defined by the World Health Organization, encompasses a range of social, psychological, behavioral, and medical interventions “designed to support and affirm an individual’s gender identity” when it conflicts with the gender they were assigned at birth.
How does voice feminization work?
This surgery creates a web or scar band at the front of the V of the vocal cords (anterior commissure). This shortens the vocal cords to help raise voice pitch. Anterior glottal web formation affects frequency range by eliminating the ability to produce lower pitches. It also narrows the airway to some degree.
What does a voice therapist do?
A voice therapist guides you through voice therapy exercises to: Eliminate or prevent harmful vocal behaviors. Help vocal cords heal after surgery or injury. Promote healthy vocal behaviors.
How long does HRT last MTF?
MTF HRT effect timeline:
| Effects | Expected Onset | Expected Maximum Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Body fat redistribution | 3-6 months | 2-5 years |
| Decreased muscle/mass strength | 3-6 months | 1-2 years |
| Softening of skin/decreased oiliness | 3-6 months | unknown |
| Decreased libido | 1-3 months | 1-2 years |
What causes gender dysphoria?
The exact causes of gender dysphoria are not entirely understood, but several factors may play a role. Genetics, hormonal influences during prenatal development, and environmental factors may be involved. The onset of gender dysphoria is often during early childhood.
How long does it take for your voice to feminize?
The therapy usually takes 4-6 sessions over 8-10 weeks, but this schedule can be accelerated. Many voice patients are happy with their voices after the initial therapy, and choose to not undergo the Wendler glottoplasty.
What triggers cross dressing?
Cross-dressers may cross-dress for reasons other than sexual stimulation—for example, to reduce anxiety, to relax, or, in the case of male cross-dressers, to experiment with the feminine side of their otherwise male personalities.