Choral Singing and Menstrual Health: A Pilot Study on Music’s Hormonal Effects.

Abstract:

Group music making is known to enhance emotional well-being, reduce stress, and strengthen social connections, and emerging evidence suggests these pathways may also shape menstrual health. Yet no study has directly examined whether choral singing influences menstrual symptoms or stress‑related hormonal activity. This pilot study tested the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of an 8‑week choral‑singing intervention on menstrual wellbeing among menstruating adults. Grounded in the Biopsychosocial Stress Model, Communal Music Making Theory, and Episto‑Musical Pedagogy Theory, the study explored how singing helps lower cortisol, supports emotional regulation, and fosters belonging. Using a mixed‑methods convergent design, 24 participants completed weekly 60‑minute choir sessions, menstrual and psychosocial measures, salivary cortisol and heart rate variability (HRV) assessments, and qualitative interviews. Recruitment, retention (92%), and attendance (86%) were strong. Participants reported reduced stress, decreased menstrual pain and fatigue, and modest improvements in cortisol and HRV. Findings confirm feasibility and provide effect‑size estimates for a future randomized trial.