Voice Changes: A Teen's Concerns About Development

Unchanged

I am a high school sophomore and I am nearly 18 years old, but it seems I have never gone through voice change, and my voice still sounds like that of an elementary school student.
This has made me feel a bit self-conscious, but my family is quite conservative, and my parents seem to have not noticed, so I have not seen a doctor.
I am unsure what might be the issue.
(I had two surgeries for inguinal hernias on both sides when I was in sixth grade and seventh grade.) Thank you.

money, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/04/06

Dr. Song Zhixian reply Urology

Bilateral inguinal hernia surgery is generally safe and without concerns.
In very rare cases in young children, accidental damage to the vas deferens can lead to male infertility.
The testes themselves cannot be damaged in a way that causes male hormone deficiency.
However, if there is a concurrent condition of cryptorchidism, there may be congenital developmental issues with the testes, resulting in changes to male characteristics.
The length of the testes is approximately 3.6 cm or more, and the width is about 2.1 cm or more.
Additionally, blood tests for related hormones such as FSH, LH, and Testosterone may be conducted.

Reply Date: 2002/04/06

More Info

It's understandable to feel concerned about your voice, especially as you approach adulthood. Voice changes during puberty are a natural part of development, particularly for males, as testosterone levels rise and influence the growth of the larynx (voice box). Typically, boys experience a significant drop in pitch during this time, often referred to as "voice breaking," which can occur between the ages of 12 and 16. However, the timing and extent of these changes can vary widely among individuals.

In your case, since you are nearing 18 and have not noticed a significant change in your voice, it may be worth exploring a few possibilities. Firstly, genetics can play a role in voice development. If your family members have similar voice characteristics, it might simply be a hereditary trait. Additionally, hormonal levels can influence voice changes. If there is a hormonal imbalance or deficiency, it could potentially affect the development of secondary sexual characteristics, including voice changes.

You mentioned having undergone surgery for inguinal hernias in the past. Generally, such surgeries do not directly impact voice changes. However, if there were complications or if you have a condition that affects hormone production, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
It's also important to consider psychological factors. Social pressures and self-esteem issues can significantly affect how we perceive ourselves and our voices. If you feel self-conscious about your voice, it may be beneficial to speak with a counselor or therapist who can help you navigate these feelings.
If you are concerned about your voice and its development, I recommend consulting with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or an endocrinologist. They can assess your hormonal levels through blood tests and evaluate your vocal cords to ensure there are no underlying issues. Additionally, a speech therapist can provide exercises and techniques to help you develop your voice further, regardless of its current state.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for some individuals to experience delayed voice changes, it is essential to seek professional advice to rule out any medical concerns. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to your voice can help you feel more confident and empowered as you navigate this stage of your life. Remember, everyone's development is unique, and there is no "normal" timeline for these changes.

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