Esophageal speech is a method of speaking used by individuals who have lost their natural voice, often due to laryngectomy, a surgical procedure that removes the larynx. This technique involves swallowing air and then expelling it, which creates sound as it passes through the esophagus. The sound is shaped into speech by using the mouth, tongue, and lips. This form of communication can take time to learn and requires practice to master. While it may not sound the same as natural speech, many people find it an effective way to communicate after losing their voice.