Vaped and started testosterone and lost my voice, quit, trying to get back on track
Posted in Category Open Discussion-
LLaura Knapp 3 years ago
Half a year ago i, 32, non binary. female at birth, started hormone replacement therapy to assist with body dysphoria and was aware that vocal changes would occur.
A few months ago I took up occasional vaping to curb stress and anxiety and realized after 2 or so months that my voice was fading and becoming far more stained than I knew how to deal with.
I have since stopped vaping and am reducing my hrt while I figure out what to do for my voice.
I used to sing soprano very well and now but voice cuts out and sounds like an air horn when I try to move into notes that were effortless before. Its scary. My throat feels stained and my notes are airy and I cant belt AT ALL.
I dont know if I should look for a vocal coach to get my voice back 'in shape'? Or if I should lay off singing for a while and hope my voice bounces back with time. Any advice?
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CCamille van Niekerk 3 years ago
Hi, Laura! I do think it might be worth getting a few lessons with a coach (specifically, one who has experience working with singers during/following hormone therapy) so they can assess what's going on and provide guidance.
You might also consider getting scoped by a laryngologist/ENT (or asking your doctor if that would be advisable) to rule out any vocal damage from vaping. When a singer's voice continually cuts out (on notes they can usually sing), I urge them to see a doctor before continuing lessons, as I don't want to risk further damage. However - I don't have experience coaching singers during HRT, so what you're describing may be normal, or the "new limit" of your range.
Since you used to sing soprano, I wonder if your voice would currently be more comfortable in mezzo, alto, or even tenor range? Feel free to sing along with one of the warmups below to see if one is a more comfortable fit.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIDCAK4Pkp4