U by Kotex partners with pickleball champion to break period stigma in sports

U by Kotex, a Kimberly-Clark brand known for its leadership in menstrual care products, has announced a new partnership with Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s No. 1 ranked pickleball player. The initiative aims to tackle the stigma still associated with menstruation in sports and empower women to perform at their best, regardless of the phase of their menstrual cycle.

At just 18 years old, Waters is a dominant force in professional pickleball and now joins U by Kotex to advocate for greater awareness and normalization of menstruation in athletics.

“It’s always a rush to win a match, but yesterday’s win was especially rewarding considering I’m on my period”, Waters said. “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 partnership was announced shortly after Waters secured another undefeated tournament win in San Clemente, California, triumphing in doubles matches while menstruating.

Recent research highlights the need for such initiatives. A UK-based study found that over 84% of girls aged 11 to 16 reported losing interest in sports and physical activities after starting their periods. Additionally, nearly 25% admitted feeling embarrassed to participate in physical activities during menstruation.

“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 at 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”.

With this campaign, U by Kotex reinforces its commitment to women’s health and continues its efforts to break taboos around menstruation, encouraging women to stay active throughout all phases of their cycle.