INTRODUCTION: Despite the relatively high prevalence of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affecting up to 15% of all women of reproductive age, only little is known about vocal changes related to this endocrinologic disorder that is characterized by biochemical or clinical hyperandrogenism, impaired cycles, and/or polycystic ovaries. The aim of our study was to describe objective and subjective vocal changes in women with a diagnosed PCOS compared with a control group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our study group comprised 34 women-24 cases with confirmed PCOS and 10 controls in whom PCOS was excluded. A complete endocrinologic laboratory status was obtained by all participants; study procedures included a videolaryngostroboscopy, voice recording, and completion of the German version of the Voice Handicap Index. RESULTS: A trend toward lower mean fundamental frequency was detectable, but this failed statistical significance. No differences were found in the objective and subjective voice parameters. CONCLUSION: Elevated serum levels of androgens, as found in women with PCOS, were shown not to have an impact on the subjective and objective voice parameters.
INTRODUCTION: Despite the relatively high prevalence of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affecting up to 15% of all women of reproductive age, only little is known about vocal changes related to this endocrinologic disorder that is characterized by biochemical or clinical hyperandrogenism, impaired cycles, and/or polycystic ovaries. The aim of our study was to describe objective and subjective vocal changes in women with a diagnosed PCOS compared with a control group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our study group comprised 34 women-24 cases with confirmed PCOS and 10 controls in whom PCOS was excluded. A complete endocrinologic laboratory status was obtained by all participants; study procedures included a videolaryngostroboscopy, voice recording, and completion of the German version of the Voice Handicap Index. RESULTS: A trend toward lower mean fundamental frequency was detectable, but this failed statistical significance. No differences were found in the objective and subjective voice parameters. CONCLUSION: Elevated serum levels of androgens, as found in women with PCOS, were shown not to have an impact on the subjective and objective voice parameters.