How testosterone therapy affects communication in gender diverse individuals
Effects of exogenous testosterone therapy on communication in gender diverse speakers
This study is looking at how testosterone therapy affects the voices of people assigned female at birth who are exploring their gender identity, helping us understand how it can change voice pitch and sound, which is important for feeling more comfortable in their gender.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10997393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of testosterone therapy on the voices of gender-diverse individuals assigned female at birth. It aims to understand how testosterone influences vocal fold and vocal tract anatomy, which may lead to changes in voice pitch and perception of gender. By examining these changes, the study seeks to provide evidence-based insights into voice masculinization, a crucial aspect of gender-affirming care. Participants will undergo assessments to evaluate the relationship between testosterone therapy and vocal characteristics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are gender-diverse individuals assigned female at birth who are undergoing or considering testosterone therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not assigned female at birth or those who do not wish to undergo testosterone therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved voice masculinization treatments for gender-diverse individuals, enhancing their communication and personal safety.
How similar studies have performed: While there is speculation about the effects of testosterone on voice, this research aims to provide direct evidence, making it a novel approach in this area.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University (Charles River Campus) — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stepp, Cara E. — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Stepp, Cara E.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.