A Case-Study on the Effects of the Menstrual Cycle and the Use of a Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill on the Performance of a Western Classical Singer: An Objective and Subjective Overview

Abstract

This case study explores the objective and psychologically perceived effects of the menstrual cycle and the use of a combined oral contraceptive pill on the singing performance of a western classical female singer. Objective measures of vocal parameters and hormonal concentrations were assessed during her natural menstrual cycle and during the use of an oral contraceptive pill. A diary was kept throughout the six months duration of the study and one lengthy semi-structured interview was also carried out with the singer, focussing on perceptions of her singing quality over the entire study. Aural analyses of the singing recordings were also undertaken by two independently qualified judges to ..