Why Men Don’t Listen in the Same Way as Women – Audiology Associates

The findings from the paper in Scientific Reports revealed that biological sex has a big impact on hearing sensitivity, coupled with environmental and other factors. 

Why Do Men and Women Hear Differently?

“Hearing differences between men and women have long puzzled audiologists, but new insights suggest that biology, especially hormones, could be part of the reason women are said to have sharper hearing” states Jenn Schumacher, Au.D.

“A leading theory points to estrogen, the hormone primarily produced by the ovaries, which fluctuates throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle and peaks during the reproductive years. In men, estrogen exists too, but in much lower and more stable levels.

“There are also subtle anatomical differences in the cochlea between men and women. These differences could help process sound more efficiently and, on average, give women about a 2 decibel (dB) advantage in hearing sensitivity.

“In practical terms? Women can hear slightly softer sounds than men and may be more sensitive to high frequency noise, something that can make a big difference in hearing effectively, especially in noisy environments.

“We’re still piecing the puzzle together. Hormones and anatomy are part of the story, but more research is needed to fully understand how hearing works differently between men and women.”

Lifestyle and Environment: It’s not just biological and anatomical factors that influence the difference between men’s and women’s hearing abilities. Men’s lifestyles and environmental exposure also contribute to hearing differences.

Occupational noise: While women have made significant strides in male-dominated industries, historically men have more commonly worked in roles such as construction, the military, and mechanics. These jobs come with a higher risk of hearing damage due to frequent exposure to loud noise from heavy machinery or gunfire.

Hobbies and interests: Like careers, hobbies and interests aren’t limited by sex, but in many cases, men are more likely to engage in loud activities such as riding motorcycles, using firearms, or attending car races and sporting events. These pastimes can lead to

A hearing care provider can detect early signs of hearing damage and, by getting a hearing test, you can better track any changes in your hearing ability over time. This goes for men and women both!

To make an appointment with a hearing healthcare provider, please call Audiology Associates at 661-284-1900. Kevin Bolder, Au.D and John Davis, Au.D are two of the best in Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley. Visit our website at www.AudiologyAssociates.net or stop by our office located at 25425 Orchard Village Road, Suite 220, Valenica, CA 91355.

We are Hearing Healthcare Excellence!

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