The left and right vocal folds are housed within the larynx. The vocal folds include three distinct layers that work together to promote vocal fold vibration.

1. Covering/mucosa: Loose structure that is key to vocal fold vibration during sound production; is composed of:
   • Epithelium
   • Basement membrane
   • Superficial lamina propria (SLP)
2. Vocal ligament: The vocal ligament is composed of:
   • Intermediate lamina propria
   • Deep lamina propria (contains collagen fibers that are stronger and more rigid than the superficial lamina propria)
3. Body: The vocal fold body is composed of the thyroarytenoid muscle. This muscle helps close the glottis and regulate tension of vocal fold during speaking and/or singing. The medial portion of this muscle is also called "vocalis muscle."