Vocal Feminization: False Vocal Fold Constriction

If you’re experiencing vocal fatigue or tension, or if you feel like you’re missing something from your vocal quality, but can’t quite figure out what it is, it could be the false vocal folds! 

Below, I’ll explain what and where the false vocal folds are, how they change position, and show you how to get a more relaxed, pure vocal quality by becoming more aware of them. 

What are the false folds?

We actually have two sets of vocal folds. Our true vocal folds live inside our larynx and vibrate together to create sound, and our false vocal folds, or vestibular vocal folds, are located right on top of them. The false vocal folds don’t vibrate, but they act as a layer of protection for the true vocal folds and can constrict and retract. 

The purpose of these constricting muscles is to close the air passage when you’re swallowing and open up so you can breathe. The problem is, these constricting muscles can tighten up when you move up to higher pitches and get in the way of a relaxed, pure sound. 

How do the false folds change your voice?

When the false folds are constricted, the voice sounds tense, tight, pinched, and husky. You can feel this when you exert force or groan in pain. When the false folds are in a neutral position, you probably won’t notice a specific sound quality. And when they are retracted, the voice sounds more pure and clean.

When working on vocal feminization, it’s common to constrict the false folds. Working on brighter resonance and a higher pitch can lead to tension, resulting in that constricted, tight sound quality. By becoming aware of the false folds, you can learn to retract them, and achieve a more relaxed, pure, clean sound. 

How to retract the false folds

Try this exercise to feel your false vocal folds constrict and retract:

1. Plug your ears and breathe normally. Notice what you hear as you breathe in and out.

2. Plug your ears and breathe like it’s a struggle or you’re groaning. (See video above). This is your false vocal folds constricting. Notice what you hear and feel.

3. Plug your ears and breathe silently. This is your false vocal folds retracting. Notice an open feeling in your throat.