Hormonal influence on auditory function.
This study examined whether female subjects who had balanced hormonal profiles and who were experiencing the characteristic fluctuation in estrogen and progesterone levels exhibited changes in auditory function unlike subjects who were using a low-dose combined estrogen and progesterone steroid. Threshold data at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz and middle ear pressure measurements were obtained at three specific times during two consecutive menstrual cycles. Results indicated no significant auditory sensitivity or middle ear pressure difference between the two groups. However, middle ear pressure was found to be significantly higher for both groups, and auditory sensitivity was decreased on day 3 or 4 of the cycle. It was concluded that the natural increase in interstitial fluids which generally begins 4 or 5 days before menses and culminates shortly after the onset of menses may be of sufficient magnitude to alter eustachian tube function and thereby affect middle ear status.