U by Kotex Teams Up with Anna Leigh Waters to Redefine Periods in Sports

Anna Leigh Waters and U by Kotex are teaming up to prove that periods don’t pause greatness and to challenge the stigma keeping girls out of sports.

U by Kotex is taking a stand against period stigma in sports, announcing a powerful new partnership with world #1 pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters. At just 18, Waters is not only dominating the courts—she’s also challenging the outdated belief that periods hold athletes back.

Redefining What Peak Performance Looks Like

Fresh off an undefeated tournament in San Clemente, California, Waters swept her doubles matches while on her period, proving that peak performance doesn’t pause for your cycle. In fact, a recent study indicates that some women may experience improved mental agility during menstruation, with faster reaction times and better accuracy.

"It's always a rush to win a match, but yesterday's win was especially rewarding considering I'm on my period," said Waters. "Many girls today think playing on their period is a barrier to success, even causing many of them to drop out of sports entirely. Thankfully, I now have U by Kotex as a partner to further our shared mission of empowering women to stay in the game, every day of the month. I am proof that periods shouldn't stop you from competing, chasing your goals, or showing up as your best self – especially when you have the right protection."

The Ongoing Challenge: Period Stigma in Sports

Despite inspiring stories like Waters’, the stigma around periods in sports is still a major hurdle. According to a study, more than 84% of girls aged 11–16 say their interest in sports and fitness drops after starting their period. Nearly a quarter feel embarrassed to take part in physical activity during their menstrual cycle. The new U by Kotex partnership with Anna Leigh Waters aims to challenge these outdated ideas and normalize conversations about how playing on your period can be powerful.

Empowerment, Every Day of the Month

"We're proud to partner with Anna Leigh Waters to show the world that a period shouldn't stand in the way of a woman's progress," said Nicole Pawlukowsky, vice president of U by Kotex. "Celebrating and showcasing female athletes' resilience and strength is something the U by Kotex brand is proud to champion, and we're honored to partner with the #1 Pickleball player in the World to prove a period shouldn't get in the way of doing what you love."

Join the Conversation

U by Kotex and Anna Leigh Waters invite you to help end period stigma in sports. Follow their journey and join the movement on Instagram, TikTok, and learn more about period health resources.

With this partnership, U by Kotex and Anna Leigh Waters are proving that periods aren’t a weakness; they’re a power move.