Naomi Watts Has Two Secrets to Maintaining Intimacy During Menopause (and One Is on Sale for Black Friday)

Naomi Watts is not shy when it comes to talking sex, menopause or sex during menopause. After all, the A-list actress isn't just an A-list actress—she's also the founder of Stripes, a holistic feminine wellness and beauty brand catered specifically to women who are in the peri- and postmenopausal stages of their lives. "I created Stripes because we deserve support, solutions and the space to figure it all out," Watts writes in her founder's statement. "Because while menopause may be part of midlife, midlife is a lot more than just menopause."

The Stripes line includes everything from skincare to supplements (all of which are currently marked down by 30 percent during the brand's Black Friday sale, on through Dec. 4), but what we're here to talk about are the chicly (and discreetly) packaged vaginal care products that have proven to be game-changers for those experiencing menopause dryness. "They're beautiful bottles, they don't look medicinal," agrees Watts, who I chatted with last month at the brand's World Menopause Day event in New York City.

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But a good lubricant isn't the only thing Watts cites as the secret to maintaining a healthy sex life at this stage. Her second piece of pivotal advice? "Owning the conversation. Just saying, 'Hi, this is what's going on with me,' and owning the truth. There's no reason to shy away from it...and asking for support [from your partner], there should be no shame in that." Such open and honest communication (both in and out of the boudoir) "is how you solve every problem," Watts adds. "Mysteries are impossible—for everyone."

So, if you're struggling with intimacy during the rollercoaster ride that is menopause, consider that a lot of honesty—and a little bit of Stripes—can go a long way.