An Evaluation of the Prevalence and Efficacy of Gender Affirmative Vocal Therapy in Poland

Abstract

The voice is one of the most important factors influencing gender and cultural identity. Voice problems and disabilities are common in the transgender community. This preliminary research investigates the prevalence of voice problems in transgender people who have completed or are in the process of completing gender reassignment in Poland. The aim was to describe the scope of challenges faced by the transgender community and to assess whether gender affirmative vocal therapy improves outcomes during gender transition. A questionnaire was distributed through secure social media forums to gather anonymized data. The questionnaire explored demographic details, self-perception, societal perception, and voice quality perception. Out of 200 responses, 21 confirmed participating in gender affirmative vocal therapy. Ten elements of voice quality perception were significantly improved in the gender affirmative vocal therapy group compared to controls (p < 0.033). The study showed a significant impact of societal and self-perception on voice quality perception. It is crucial for health and well-being that people who undergo gender reassignment have access to gender affirmative vocal therapy.