Naomi Watts is making strides in destigmatising menopause and advocating for greater awareness of women’s health issues, particularly concerning perimenopause and menopause. The acclaimed actress, known for her roles in films such as “The Ring” and “Birdman,” shared insights into her advocacy during a recent appearance at the CNBC Changemakers Summit held in New York City on April 16, 2026.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Watts discussed her efforts to educate not only women but also her children about menopause. The actress, a mother to son Sasha, 18, and daughter Kai, 17, from her previous relationship with actor Liev Schreiber, recounted some light-hearted moments involving her kids’ first encounters with discussions surrounding this often-taboo subject.
Watts described an incident when one of her children saw a bottle of lubricant in her bedroom. “They were like, ‘What?’ And I said, ‘Yes, yes, you know, by the way, lube is sold at Urban Outfitters now,'” she recalled, indicating the growing openness around such topics. She noted that even if her children may not fully educate their peers, it’s clear that the stigma associated with menopause is gradually diminishing.
During a panel discussion with moderator Julie Boorstin and Warner Bros. co-chair and CEO Pam Abdy, Watts reflected on her early conversations with her children regarding menopause. She recounted asking them if they knew what menopause was, to which one replied, “Isn’t it when you wet the bed, Mum?”—a misunderstanding likely stemming from her experiences with night sweats. Another child even remarked, “Isn’t it when old ladies die?”
Watts used these anecdotes to highlight the pressing need for better education on menopause, akin to the sex education lessons introduced in schools. “Why doesn’t the education start as early as sex ed in sixth grade? It’s just part of the story,” she asserted, emphasising that such discussions should be normalized and integrated into broader health education.
Her personal journey through perimenopause began unexpectedly following the birth of her second child when she was 36 years old. Initially confronted with symptoms that were completely foreign to her, Watts called her mother for guidance. It was then that she discovered her mother had also experienced early menopause but had never shared that information. “Why didn’t you tell me before?” Watts recalled asking her mother. The answer was that these conversations simply hadn’t taken place in previous generations.
Motivated by her own experiences, Watts established Stripes Beauty, a holistic beauty brand designed specifically for women navigating the later stages of life. Through this venture, she seeks to offer support and resources to women experiencing similar life changes. “I felt lonely and panicked and completely unprepared,” she recalled about her early symptoms, acknowledging that there needs to be more support available for women in similar situations.
Watts has also taken her advocacy online, frequently engaging in discussions focused on women’s health and well-being. Her candidness about her personal challenges with menopause has made her a relatable figure among her peers, leading to a burgeoning social circle centred around these vital conversations. “With my girlfriends now, the conversation is that they know I’m like the ‘menopause lady,'” she joked, underscoring the importance of community in tackling such issues.
The actress’s commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding menopause highlights a transformative shift in societal attitudes towards women’s health. By equipping not only herself but also future generations with the knowledge and understanding of menopause, Watts is contributing significantly to the dismantling of outdated perceptions and practices. As discussions around menopause become less fragmented and more inclusive, Watts’s advocacy is set to pave the way for a more informed and supportive environment for women everywhere.
In fostering awareness and acceptance, Naomi Watts exemplifies how individuals can influence wider cultural shifts, ensuring that future generations are better prepared for the realities of middle age and beyond. Through her actions, she shines a light on an important chapter of women’s lives—one that deserves to be acknowledged and discussed without shame.