Anna Leigh Waters Period Stigma Campaign: Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s top-ranked pickleball player, has joined hands with U by Kotex® to challenge period stigma in sports. The 18-year-old athlete recently partnered with the brand to prove that women can perform at their best, even during their menstrual cycle.
Anna Leigh Waters became the new brand ambassador after winning all her doubles matches at a tournament in San Clemente, California, while on her period. This victory helped spotlight the campaign’s message: periods should not stop female athletes from competing.
Highlighting Strength, Not Weakness
Recent studies show that periods may not reduce athletic ability. In fact, some women may react faster and more accurately during menstruation. Anna Leigh Waters is showing this in real life by winning major matches while on her period.
“It’s always a rush to win a match, but yesterday’s win was especially rewarding considering I’m on my period. 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.”-(Anna Leigh Waters)
Studies Support the Message
Research from the United Kingdom found that more than 84% of girls aged 11 to 16 lose interest in sports after starting their periods. Nearly one in four feels embarrassed to take part in physical activity during that time.
Nicole Pawlukowsky, vice president of U by Kotex®, explained the importance of this partnership:
“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. 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.”-(Nicole Pawlukowsky)
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Kimberly-Clark’s Mission
U by Kotex® is a brand under Kimberly-Clark, a global company that makes health and personal care products. Kimberly-Clark operates in over 175 countries with brands like Huggies, Kleenex, and Scott. The company focuses on helping people live better while also protecting the planet.
By teaming up with Anna Leigh Waters, the company hopes to support young women in sports and change how people think about periods and performance.
News in Brief: Anna Leigh Waters Period Stigma Campaign
Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s No. 1 pickleball player, has teamed up with U by Kotex® to fight period stigma in sports. After winning a tournament on her period, she now encourages girls to stay active. The campaign aims to boost confidence and stop dropouts from sports due to menstruation.
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