BY & FOR BOY MOMS EVERYWHERE

Many people wonder why men develop an Adam’s apple while women typically do not. Some believe it serves a biological function, while others see it as a unique characteristic of male development. The Adam’s apple is actually a visible part of the larynx (voice box) and plays a role in voice modulation and protection of the vocal cords. Whether seen as a divine design or an evolutionary trait, it remains one of the more distinctive features of male anatomy.

If you are a boy mum, you may have found yourself learning about this body part, which will be key to knowing when he’s going from a boy to a man. The Cleveland Clinic offers a good explanation but here’s more about what I found.

What Is an Adam’s Apple?

The Adam’s apple, also known as the laryngeal prominence, is a lump of cartilage that surrounds and protects the larynx. It is more prominent in males due to the larger growth of the larynx during puberty. This growth contributes to the deepening of the voice and other vocal changes that occur as boys mature into men. While it is most commonly associated with males, some females may also have a small, less noticeable Adam’s apple.

Why Does It Have That Name?

The term “Adam’s apple” originates from the biblical story of Adam and Eve. According to legend, when Adam ate the forbidden fruit, a piece became lodged in his throat, creating a bulge. While this is more folklore than science, the name has endured through centuries and is widely recognized today.

Anatomy of the Laryngeal Prominence

The Adam’s apple is composed of thyroid cartilage, which forms a shield around the front of the larynx. This cartilage is flexible in younger individuals but hardens with age. The size and prominence of the Adam’s apple vary based on genetics, hormones, and individual differences in growth patterns. During puberty, the growth of both the larynx and the Adam’s apple is influenced by hormonal changes, particularly testosterone, making it more pronounced in males.

Size of the Adam’s Apple

The size of an Adam’s apple varies from person to person. Some men have large, prominent Adam’s apples, while others have smaller, less noticeable ones. The size is largely determined by the growth of the larynx during puberty and genetic factors, and some individuals may consider cosmetic procedures to make their Adam’s apple smaller or larger based on personal preference.

At What Age Will My Son Develop an Adam’s Apple?

Boys usually begin to develop an Adam’s apple during puberty, and that typically occurs between the ages of 12 and 16. As testosterone levels increase, the larynx grows, leading to a more pronounced Adam’s apple and changes in voice pitch.

Do All Boys Have an Adam’s Apple?

Yes, all boys develop an Adam’s apple to some extent. However, its visibility varies. Some may have a very noticeable lump, while others may have a less prominent one. Both are normal! The differences are due to individual varieties in cartilage growth, hormonal influences, and overall anatomy. Testosterone levels during puberty can lead to larger Adam’s apples in some individuals, affecting voice depth and social perceptions of masculinity.

Can a Girl Have an Adam’s Apple?

Yes, some women do have a small Adam’s apple. Adam’s apples develop during puberty as a secondary sexual characteristic influenced by testosterone, and while they are usually more prominent in males, all humans have thyroid cartilage, just at varying sizes and visibility.

Will His Voice Change When He Gets an Adam’s Apple?

Yes, the development of an Adam’s apple, often referred to as Adam’s throat, is directly linked to changes in voice modulation. As the larynx grows, the vocal cords lengthen and thicken, resulting in a deeper voice. This is why teenage boys often experience voice cracks during puberty as their vocal cords adjust to their new size.

Does a Big Adam’s Apple Mean a Deeper Voice?

Generally, a large Adam’s apple develops during male puberty due to the influence of testosterone, leading to a larger larynx and longer vocal cords, which correlates with a deeper voice. However, other factors, such as vocal cord tension and resonance, also play a role in determining voice depth.

Can You Remove an Adam’s Apple?

Yes, there is a cosmetic surgery procedure called a chondrolaryngoplasty, commonly known as a tracheal shave, that reduces the size of the Adam’s apple. This is often sought by individuals undergoing gender-affirming procedures or those who feel self-conscious about a prominent Adam’s apple.

Is It Normal to Not Have an Adam’s Apple?

Yes, it is entirely normal for some boys or men to have a less visible Adam’s apple. The prominence depends on genetics and how much the larynx grows during puberty. Some individuals may have a prominent Adam’s apple, which is a natural variation and can be influenced by genetic factors. A small or less noticeable Adam’s apple does not affect your son’s health or voice function.

Is an Adam’s Apple to Men the Same as a Thyroid to Women?

No, the Adam’s apple and thyroid gland serve different purposes. The Adam’s apple, a secondary sex characteristic, is part of the larynx and affects voice production, becoming more prominent in males during puberty due to testosterone. The thyroid gland, located below the Adam’s apple, regulates metabolism and hormone production in both men and women.

What Are Common Disorders of the Adam’s Apple?

While the Adam’s apple itself does not usually cause health issues, problems related to the larynx and surrounding structures can arise. The arytenoid cartilage, which plays a crucial role in articulating the vocal cords for speech production and helps keep airways clear, is one such structure. Some common conditions include:

• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, often causing voice loss or hoarseness.
• Vocal Cord Nodules: Small growths on the vocal cords that affect voice quality.
• Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, which may cause swelling near the Adam’s apple.
• Laryngeal Cancer: A rare but serious condition that affects the voice box.

If your son has any concerns about pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing in the Adam’s apple area, consult a doctor immediately.

Aren’t you happy you now know more, mum?

This is just one of a variety of body parts you might have needed to read up on to be a better mom to your son. The Adam’s apple is a unique feature of male anatomy, closely tied to puberty, voice changes, and hormonal development. While it is most prominent in men, some women may have a small Adam’s apple as well. The epiglottic cartilage, which helps protect the airway by keeping food out of the windpipe, works alongside other cartilaginous structures in the throat to support vocalization and airway clearance. Whether seen as a natural biological trait or a remnant of ancient legend, it remains a fascinating aspect of your son’s development.