The voice begins with a breath. The contraction of the diaphragm and other muscles of respiration brings air into the lungs. As the diaphragm relaxes, air is exhaled, which passes up through the airway toward the vocal folds
The vocal folds are two side-by-side muscles that remain open in a V shape during breathing and come together to vibrate during speaking and singing. This vibration is called “phonation.”
Vibrations from the vocal folds are shaped by the throat, mouth, and nose, making the sound unique for each person. Our articulators, like our tongues, lips, teeth, and more, then form this sound into speech.
Due to the many carefully coordinated muscles required to produce speech, a large variety of problems can affect your communication. At the UPMC Voice, Airway & Swallow Center we specialize in conditions affecting phonation, known as voice disorders.