A guy’s voice getting deeper is a common occurrence that generally indicates puberty and maturation. As boys go through puberty, their bodies begin producing more testosterone, which leads to physical changes like muscle growth, facial hair development, and vocal changes. Specifically, the larynx (voice box) grows larger and the vocal cords get longer and thicker. This deepens the voice and expands its range. So in most cases, a guy’s voice deepening is a normal part of male puberty. There are some other factors that can also deepen an adult male’s voice as well.
Puberty and the Deepening Voice
During puberty, rising testosterone levels cause the larynx to grow in size. The larynx contains the vocal cords, which vibrate to produce sound when air passes over them. As the larynx enlarges, it lowers the position of the vocal cords in relation to the windpipe. The enlarged larynx and longer, thicker vocal cords change the resonance and create the lower-pitched, deeper voice associated with males after puberty.
When does the Voice Start to Deepen?
The timing of voice deepening varies somewhat between individuals. But most boys will experience the first vocal changes between ages 11-15. Changes often begin around age 13 or 14. The voice continues to gradually deepen over several years. Full maturation of the adult male voice is often not attained until the late teens or early 20s. So voice deepening is a gradual process of change spanning puberty and beyond.
Signs of Voice Deepening
Some common signs that a boy’s voice is starting to change include:
- Voice cracking or breaking unpredictably to higher or lower pitches
- Hoarse, raspy vocal quality
- Limited range, difficulty hitting high or low notes
- Voice tires easily after short periods of talking
- Pitch is lower overall, even if cracking persists
As the larynx continues growing and the vocal cords thicken, the voice stabilizes at the new lower range. Cracking becomes less frequent and the voice gains a smoother, more resonant baritone quality.
Other Factors Affecting Vocal Pitch
While puberty accounts for most cases of voice deepening in males, some other factors can also lower vocal pitch:
Age
Over time, the cartilage of the larynx becomes more rigid. This can lower pitch slightly. Voices are at their highest pitch in the early 20s and decline gradually with age. After age 50, the muscles controlling vocal fold tension may weaken. This can contribute to a deeper, more gravely voice in older men.
Smoking
Smoking is extremely damaging to vocal cords and causes them to become irritated and swollen. This adds a raspy, lower quality to the voice. Smoking can make voices sound deeper and older than they actually are. Quitting smoking helps reduce swelling and improves vocal cord health.
Acid Reflux
Frequent acid reflux can cause inflammation of the vocal cords. This scarring and swelling thickens the cords, making the voice box smaller and dropping vocal pitch. Treating acid reflux helps reduce hoarseness and vocal issues.
Vocal Cord Lesions
Non-cancerous growths like vocal cord polyps or nodules can lower vocal pitch. These lesions change the way the cords vibrate. Surgery is sometimes needed to remove them and restore the normal voice.
Testosterone Levels
Men with abnormally low testosterone may speak in higher, softer voices. Testosterone replacement therapy can help stimulate larynx growth and lower pitch. Transgender men undergoing testosterone therapy also experience dramatic voice deepening as male puberty is induced.
Intentional Voice Control
Some men may unconsciously train their voice to be lower over time, whether to sound more masculine or authoritative. With practice and vocal exercises, people can strengthen and expand their natural pitch range. So some deepening can arise from intentionally flexing those skills.
When to See a Doctor
While voice deepening is normal in puberty, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation:
- No voice change by age 16
- Voice loss lasting over 2 weeks
- Severe pain when speaking
- Difficulty breathing
- Hoarseness lasting over 3 weeks
These may indicate an underlying condition needing treatment. Voice disorders like chronic hoarseness or voice loss can signify:
- Respiratory infections
- Allergies
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Vocal trauma from overuse
- Cysts or nerve damage
- Cancer in rare cases
A pediatrician or ENT specialist can evaluate persistent vocal changes and provide appropriate solutions.
Emotional Effects of Voice Breaking
Voice changes in puberty can be embarrassing or difficult to adjust to at first. As voices crack frequently or won’t cooperate, boys may become self-conscious about speaking. Some common feelings include:
- Self-consciousness about uncontrolled voice breaking
- Frustration when high notes can’t be reached
- Embarrassment about sounding younger at times
- Annoyance at vocal fatigue after short use
- Concern that deepness sounds strange
Reassurance that the changes are temporary can help boys become more comfortable. Trying not to clear the throat or whisper can help reduce strain. Staying hydrated, avoiding irritants like smoke, and vocal rest during the worst cracking helps voices stabilize.
Improving Vocal Control
While waiting for the voice to settle at the new lower range, some practices can make voice deepening less frustrating:
Speak Slowly and Low
Using a lower tone and slower pace minimizes unpredictable cracking. This projects confidence rather than drawing attention to vocal inconsistencies.
Find Optimal Pitch
Experiment to find the lowest pitch that can be consistently maintained. Use this optimal baseline pitch when possible to avoid cracking above it.
Learn Relaxed Throat Techniques
Tensing the muscles around the larynx makes cracking worse. Learn to relax the tongue, jaw, and upper throat when speaking.
Try Resonant Humming
Humming helps elongate vocal cords gently. Practice humming while slowly gliding up and down pitches.
Stay Hydrated
Keep the vocal cords lubricated by drinking plenty of water and limiting caffeine/alcohol which dry out the throat.
Limit Vocal Strain
Avoid prolonged periods of loud talking/singing which fatigue the changing voice. Let the voice rest as needed.
Embracing the New Voice
While it takes time to adjust, remember that voice deepening marks an important milestone. Having a more mature voice allows males to command more authority and respect. Here are some ways to view the changes positively:
- Sign of becoming a man, something to be proud of
- Means sounding older, less like a child
- Ability to project deeper emotions and perspectives
- More vocal gravitas and influence
- Expanded vocal range capabilities
- Distinctive vocal identity
Rather than fighting the awkward transition, accept that the deepening voice represents coming of age. Work with the changes patiently and soon vocal control will catch up.
Conclusion
When a guy’s voice gets deeper, it indicates growing up and becoming more of an adult. The physical changes of puberty are responsible, especially enlargement of the larynx and growth of the vocal cords under the influence of testosterone. It’s a normal development, but can take some getting used to. Staying healthy, avoiding vocal overuse, and learning relaxed throat techniques help smooth the transition. While it feels strange initially, the new voice is something to take pride in. It signifies leaving childhood behind and gaining greater presence, authority, and vocal range.