The Experiences and Coping Strategies of Female Music Majors Singing During Menstruation: A Case Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31154/isc12.v12i4.159.954-965Keywords:
Menstruation, singing performance, coping strategiesAbstract
This case study explored the experiences and coping strategies of female music majors navigating their singing practices amidst the complexities of menstruation. Through in-depth interviews with ten participants, this research aimed to uncover the ways in which menstruation influences vocal performance and the overall singing experience of female music majors. This study was based on The Myoelastic-Aerodynamic Theory of Phonation by Janwillem van den Berg (1958). Data collection involves semi-structured interviews with subsequent verbatim transcription and translation, followed by a thematic analysis. The findings reveal that participants shared similar experiences, such as menstrual fatigue, distorted vocal production and quality, emotional sensitivity, and vulnerability with one’s voice. Furthermore, the study finds that participants practiced pre- and on-cycle care and self-empowerment to navigate such challenges experienced during their menstrual phase. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how female music majors managed the challenges they faced in singing while having their menstruation, offering awareness of the ways in which physiological changes caused by menstruation influence singing performance, as well as offering invaluable insights into self-care in mitigating the challenges in singing brought about by menstruation.
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