If you are an FTM transgender person considering hormone replacement therapy, you may be interested in deepening your voice with FTM voice training. While testosterone can naturally deepen your voice, you can also do exercises to deepen your voice before starting hormone therapy.
It is a common desire among trans men to have a deeper voice, as it can help to alleviate gender dysphoria and make them feel more comfortable in their identity. While hormone therapy is often the most effective way to achieve this, there are also exercises that can help to prepare your voice for the changes that will come with testosterone.
Understanding the Basics
Before beginning voice therapy, it is important to have a basic understanding of how your voice works. Your voice pitch is determined by the length and tension of your vocal cords. Typically, men have longer and thicker vocal cords than women, which contributes to their deeper voices. To deepen your voice, the first step is to learn how to properly use your vocal cords.
Working with a Speech Therapist
A speech therapist who specializes in voice therapy can help you achieve a more masculine-sounding voice. They can teach you exercises to improve your vocal range and help you develop good vocal habits. They can also help you identify any speech patterns that may be preventing you from achieving a deeper voice. A speech therapist can help you identify your unique voice and work with you to achieve your desired vocal range.
The first step in finding a speech therapist who specializes in voice therapy is to ask for referrals from your doctor or other healthcare providers. You can also search online for speech therapists in your area who specialize in voice therapy. It's important to find a therapist who has experience working with trans clients and who is knowledgeable about the unique needs of the trans community.
When you first meet with a speech therapist, they will likely ask you about your goals for your voice and perform an evaluation to assess your current voice range and habits. They may also ask you to complete exercises to help improve your vocal range and control.
Practicing at Home FTM voice training
In addition to working with a speech therapist, you can also practice deepening your voice at home. Try speaking from your chest instead of your throat, and practice speaking at a lower pitch. You can also try humming or singing at a lower pitch to help strengthen your vocal cords. Regular practice is essential to developing a deeper voice.
One of the most effective exercises for deepening your voice is called the "humming exercise." To do this exercise, simply hum at a comfortable pitch for a few seconds, and then gradually lower the pitch of your hum until you reach your lowest possible pitch. Hold this pitch for a few seconds, and then gradually raise it back up to your starting pitch. Repeat this exercise several times a day.
Another effective exercise is the "yawn-sigh" exercise. To do this exercise, take a deep breath and then let out a long, exaggerated yawn. As you exhale, transition into a sigh. This will help to relax your vocal cords and deepen your voice.
Using Technology
There are also several apps and software programs available that can help you deepen your voice. These programs use speech analysis technology to give you feedback on your pitch and help you adjust your voice accordingly. VoicePitchAnalyzer, Voice Analyst, and VocalPitchMonitor are some of the popular apps that can help you deepen your voice. However, it's important to note that technology is not a substitute for working with a speech therapist, but it can be a helpful tool to supplement your therapy sessions.
VoicePitchAnalyzer: This app uses speech analysis technology to measure your pitch and provide feedback on your progress.
Voice Analyst: This app provides real-time feedback on your voice pitch and can help you adjust your speaking habits.
Voice Tools: This software program graphs your pitch over time, allowing you to track your progress and identify areas where you need to improve. It's made specifically for transgender individuals.
Keep in mind that technology is not a substitute for working with a speech therapist, but it can be a helpful tool to supplement your therapy sessions.
Other Tips
Here are some additional tips for deepening your voice:
Practice good posture: Stand up straight and keep your shoulders back to help open up your chest and allow for better airflow.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your vocal cords lubricated and healthy.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and drinking can irritate your vocal cords and make it harder to deepen your voice.
It is important to note that these exercises will not cause your voice to deepen overnight, and they may not work for everyone. However, they can be a helpful way to prepare your voice for hormone therapy, and they may help you feel more comfortable with your voice in the meantime.
In addition to these exercises, there are also other things you can do to help deepen your voice. For example, you can try speaking from your chest instead of your throat, which can give your voice a deeper resonance. You can also try to speak more slowly and deliberately, which can help to give your voice a more masculine sound.
Remember, deepening your voice is just one aspect of transitioning as an FTM transgender person. It is important to take your time and focus on all aspects of your transition, including your mental and emotional well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about hormone therapy or transitioning in general, be sure to talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in transgender healthcare.