1. Period Anxiety Can Keep Girls Off the Field
Many girls worry about leaking during practice, games, school, or travel. Even when they love their sport, the fear of embarrassment can become stronger than the desire to participate. What looks like a lack of motivation may actually be a young athlete trying to manage a challenge she doesn’t know how to talk about.
Audrey L. on breaking down barriers and being open with teammates.
"... let's just talk and say things out loud. Not be fearful that it's 'weird' or anything. At the end of the day, we all feel the same."
2. Puberty Can Change Confidence Almost Overnight
A girl who seemed fearless one season can suddenly become self-conscious the next. As her body changes, so can the way she sees herself. This drop in confidence often happens quietly, making it easy for parents and coaches to miss until it starts affecting participation, performance, and enjoyment.
3. Not Every Girl Will Tell You She’s Struggling
Many girls feel uncomfortable discussing periods, body changes, or emotional challenges. They may avoid practices, withdraw from teammates, or seem frustrated without explaining why. Waiting for them to bring it up can mean missing important opportunities to provide support when they need it most.
Brooklyn M. on making period conversations part of sport.
"The biggest thing is having mentors to look up to and understand that they've been through it as well..."
Katie C. on coaches who understand how cycles affect performance.
"I think every female athlete deserves to be coached by a female coach atleast once."
4. Periods Affect More Than Bleeding
Hormonal changes can influence energy levels, focus, sleep, recovery, mood, and motivation. A difficult training session or emotional reaction may not simply be a matter of attitude. Understanding the physical and emotional impact of a cycle helps parents respond with empathy instead of frustration.
5. The Years Around Puberty Are When Many Girls Leave Sport
Across many sports, participation drops significantly during adolescence. Body image concerns, changing social pressures, and period-related challenges often play a role. Once a girl steps away from sport, it can be difficult to rebuild the confidence and habits that kept her active in the first place.
Jessie L. on why female role models matter in keeping girls in sports.
"I definitely had a hard time finding role models to look up to when I was really young."
6. Small Conversations Can Have a Lasting Impact
A simple question, a supportive comment, or a willingness to listen can shape how a girl feels about her body and her sport. When girls feel safe discussing challenges without embarrassment or judgment, they are far more likely to seek help instead of suffering in silence.
7. Support During Puberty Can Shape a Lifetime
The lessons girls learn during puberty often stay with them for years. When they feel supported, understood, and prepared, they are more likely to remain active, build confidence, and develop a positive relationship with their bodies. The support they receive today can influence how they see themselves long into adulthood.
Elise C. on how the next generation of parents and coaches can make a difference.
"... they need to not make it a taboo, they need to talk about it, and they need to be open about it."
What we learned, and how we're addressing it.
For many girls, the biggest challenge isn’t their period—it’s the uncertainty that comes with it.
We designed the Essentials Leakproof line with ultra-stretch fabrics that comfortably adapt to growing bodies to support girls through the physical changes of puberty while providing discreet leak protection they will feel confident in.
With the comfort of everyday underwear, Essentials Leakproof helps girls build confidence before they need it—so they can focus on school, sport, and the moments that matter, not worrying about leaks.
By making period preparedness part of the routine, parents can help reduce one of the most common sources of stress, embarrassment, and missed participation during puberty.
We know this will help improve the experience for many girls chasing their dreams.
Sign up below and we'll send you a pair of Essentials Leakproof for your daugther.