Age and gynecologic age were not different between groups (age (yrs) [mean + SE]: SS=17.2 +0.5, CG=17.9 +0.6; gynecologic age (yrs): SS=3.4 +0.6, CG=5.0 +0.7). VO2 max (ml/kg/min) was higher (p<.05) in SS vs CG, averaging 45.11 +1.4 and 35.34 +2.0, respectively. Urinary free cortisol (UFC) excretion, Derogatis Stress Profile (DSP) scores, Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WOC) scores, energy intake, the sum of 5 skinfold thicknesses (SOS), body mass index (BMI), menstrual cyclce characteristics (interval length, period length, and blood loss), and serum LH were determined at several time points. BMI and SOS were initially lower (p<.05) in SS versus CG (BMI=20.9 +0.6, 23.6 +1.2; SOS (mm)=66.4 +5.0, 94.1 +5.5, respectively). SOS decreased to 55.2 +2.4 (p<.05) in the SS during the study and remained unchanged in the CG. No significant differences were demonstrated in any of the other variables between groups or testing times. Case studies for SS were examined to explore relationships at the individual level. The case studies showed important inter-individual data that were not apparent in the group means. Urinary free cortisol for subject 101 increased as this athlete approached the National competition. The interval between subsequent menstrual periods increased throughout the study and LH pulse amplitude, area, and mean level decreased. This profile is most similar to the hypothesized adaptations to a year of synchronized swimming training. Subject 103 recorded her lowest body weight and body fat results concurrently with her lowest caloric intake and her longest menstrual cycle length. This pattern may indicate that this subject was not consuming enough energy to maintain her menstrual function at the time of the last testing session prior to the National Championships. Subject 108 had primary amenorrhea until the months preceding the study and was therefore likely still pubescent during the study. Her dietary intake of calories and macronutrients was low. This low energy intake coupled with this subject's immature reproductive axis may explain her menstrual irregularities. Subject 109's results were similar to the SS group mean on most measures. Her relatively advanced gynecologic age, mature coping skills and experience in this sport and the training it involves may have protected this athlete from the variability in menstrual cycle patterns seen in the other case study athletes.
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