Profiling Voice Characteristics of Female Speech-Language Pathologists.

PURPOSE: The present study examines the effects of service delivery on voice quality and voice-related quality of life among young female speech-language pathologists in India.

METHOD: Forty-four female speech-language pathologists (aged 19-40) working in Karnataka clinics participated. A multifaceted comprehensive voice evaluation was conducted preservice and postservice delivery.

RESULTS

Auditory-perceptual analysis (Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice) identified a significant shift toward mild dysphonia after service delivery. Aerodynamic evaluation showed a decrease in maximum phonatory duration, suggesting reduced vocal efficiency. Acoustic analysis revealed significant postservice delivery changes in Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI), Smoothed Cepstral Peak Prominence (CPPS), harmonics-to-noise ratio, F0, and jitter, reflecting negative impacts on voice quality. Quality of life assessments using the Voice-Related Quality of Life questionnaire revealed limited heterogeneity in scores.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the vulnerability of young female speech-language pathologists to voice problems due to service demands. The study underscores the importance of voice care practices and advocates for mandatory training programs across health care institutions to mitigate voice disorder risks. This research contributes to understanding the challenges faced by young female speech-language pathologists and emphasizes the need for strategies to promote vocal health and professional satisfaction.