When it comes to cheating, which can be a controversial subject [1], as the definition of "cheating" can vary [2] among individuals, it's generally thought to happen when someone isn't happy in the current relationship. Yet cheating can actually occur despite a good, healthy relationship that's built on love and trust. Here are a few reasons someone might cheat [3], from real women who have, no matter how satisfied they were within their partnerships.

It Was Easy to Get Away With

"I loved my boyfriend and everything was really good with us. We laughed, went out, and connected sexually, but I couldn't stop looking at other guys. I knew he trusted me, so I knew I'd be OK and not get caught, so I went for it. Never like a huge affair, but I would go home with some guys at a bar or something like that."

— Alexis

I Needed Better Sex

"My husband was an amazing lover, but only emotionally. Always there for me and listened to me and brought home gifts to make me smile — the most thoughtful man I know. But sexually, it was horrible! He did not know how to pleasure me, and I needed more heat and passion. I feel bad about it because I was so happy with my husband, but I needed a better time in bed, too."

— Beth

I Needed Something New

"I love my girlfriend, but sometimes we're SO boring. Like we always do the same thing in bed, with our 'moves,' and we always do the same brunches and meals. It's all routine. I love her and am so happy and don't want to be with anyone else, but something new and exciting needed to happen."

— Amanda

I Like the Attention

"Probably not a good reason, but I can't help it. I am a flirt, and I like attention. It's not good, but it's true. I am super happy with my boyfriend and I come home to him each night, and we have great sex and have so much fun together. But if I am out with friends and guys are flirting with me, I can't stop myself and sometimes I get too caught up and make out with them for a bit."

— Jessica

I Needed an Emotional Connection

"My husband is great, and when he's around, we have a good time together. He also works very hard, is smart, and takes care of me. I love him. Honestly. But he works so much and doesn't have time to listen to me and be there for me emotionally that much. I didn't mean for it to happen, but I met a wonderful man who was so kind to me. An affair happened to fill the void for two happy relationships."

— Laurie

He Was Just SO Good Looking

"I am super happy with my boyfriend and we connect in every aspect, but this guy made it known he was into me and he was beyond good looking. I don't feel super confident, and my boyfriend is amazing, but the fact that this ridiculously good-looking and hot guy wanted me was like CRAZY. I didn't want to miss my chance. I feel bad, but I loved it."

— Rachel

I Really Fell For the Other Guy

"I was really happy with my boyfriend, but I met some guy at a party and we had this instant connection. Sometimes you can't explain it. They feel like a best friend, like a male version of you that you've known forever, and that was this. I knew I had to act on it. It was wrong because I was with my ex and we were really, really happy together, but I am glad I did because then I wouldn't have found the guy I am with now."

— Ashley