We love to watch cheating spouses on Desperate Housewives, Dr Phil, and in American politics – but in reality it's one of the most painful betrayals a partner will ever experience. Surviving an extramarital affair takes courage, strength, and honesty. It may be easier to divorce after infidelity, but surviving an affair can lead to better relationships and deeper connections.

Some marriages are stronger after marital infidelity. It depends on many factors: why one person strayed, how long it continued, whether it's over, how it was discovered and the type of extramarital affair (for example, emotional cheating versus a one-night stand are two very different types of betrayal).

Once you decide to stay together after an extramarital affair, it's important to keep these "five steps to surviving an extramarital affair" fresh in your mind.