The effect of sex on middle ear function in young adults

Abstract Background The influence of sex on middle ear function has not been clearly established, and findings in the literature remain inconsistent. Evaluating tympanometric parameters together with middle ear resonance frequency may provide a more comprehensive understanding of middle ear mechanics and enhance the interpretation of clinical measurements. Objective This study aimed to compare tympanometric parameters and middle ear resonance frequency between male and female young adults with normal hearing and to investigate potential sex-related differences. Methods A total of 188 ears from normal-hearing young adults aged 18–30 years were included. Middle ear function was assessed using measurements of static compliance, tympanometric peak pressure, equivalent ear canal volume, tympanogram width, and middle ear resonance frequency. Results No significant differences were found between males and females in terms of static compliance, tympanometric peak pressure, equivalent ear canal volume, or middle ear resonance frequency. Tympanogram width was the only parameter that demonstrated a significant sex-related difference, with higher values observed in males. Conclusion In this cohort of normal-hearing young adults, sex was not associated with conventional tympanometric parameters or middle ear resonance frequency. Tympanogram width was the only parameter showing a significant difference between sexes. These findings suggest that sex may have a limited impact on middle ear function in young adulthood; however, the clinical relevance of the observed difference in tympanogram width warrants further investigation.