Hormonal and vascular contributions to tinnitus in pregnancy: a systematic review of literature
Year: 2025
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Introduction. Tinnitus, the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears, can develop or worsen during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations, vascular changes and neurological conditions. This review examines the role of estrogen, progesterone, pregnancy-induced circulatory alterations, and their impact on tinnitus. It also explores the differences between pulsatile and non-pulsatile tinnitus, and it evaluates available diagnostic and management strategies. Materials and method. A systematic literature review was conducted, using PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and SpringerLink, focusing on studies from 2014-2024. Keywords included “tinnitus in pregnancy”, “pulsatile tinnitus”, “hormonal influence on tinnitus” and “audiological testing”. The inclusion criteria prioritized peer-reviewed studies on tinnitus etiology, diagnostic methods and treatment approaches in pregnancy. Results and discussion. Hormonal shifts, particularly estrogen and progesterone fluctuations, influence auditory function by altering cochlear blood flow and neural excitability. Vascular changes linked to preeclampsia, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and migraines contribute to pulsatile tinnitus. Common diagnostic tests include pure-tone audiometry, tympanometry, otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem response testing. While betahistine and steroids remain controversial, nonpharmacological treatments such as sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dietary modifications are preferred. Conclusions. Audiological evaluations help determine the underlying causes, and nonpharmacological treatments are recommended due to safety concerns with medications. Further research is needed to establish clear management guidelines for tinnitus in pregnancy, but monitoring tinnitus after delivery is recommended if hearing loss is also diagnosed.
Source: ORL ro
Authors: Andrei Osman, Maria-Loredana Țiereanu
Language: English
Subfield: Sensory Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4412902695