The secret of a happy marriage may lie in not having children. That's what new research by the Open University published this week suggests.

Enduring Love? Couple Relationships in the 21st Century is a comprehensive survey of the relationships of 5,000 British people. The study found that childless men and women were more satisfied with their relationships than those who had children. Non-heterosexual participants were more positive about their relationship than those in heterosexual couples. Although mothers were fairly negative about their relationships, they reported feeling happier with their lives overall than any other demographic. Fathers are as happy as childless men about life.

The researchers also questioned participants on "relationship maintenance". Unsurprisingly, parents were able to spend less time on this. A simple cup of tea was said to be a highly effective way of feeling appreciated by your partner.

Has having children affected your relationship positively or negatively? Or do you think that not having children has been positive for relations with your partner? And is a cup of tea the secret to lasting romance? Share your thoughts below.