Middle-class women, as well as those more affluent, enjoy better sex lives than those with less financial means, a new study finds. Income and social status are believed to matter to them because it allows them a certain level of independence that many low-income housewives do not have ‘access’ to. Scientists have found that when they are financially independent, women can study their sexual needs and also take control of contraception. Higher-earning women are less likely to engage in abusive relationships and suffer rape or sexual assault. On the other hand, they are more likely to end abusive and unsatisfying relationships, and to turn to a professional for help or advice in case of a problem, the researchers explain. The study shows that just as with men, financial independence and social status to some extent give them the necessary power to take control of their lives. NEWS_MORE_BOX Among women who report having a fulfilling sex life, there is a greater percentage of those who have a stable relationship – 96%, compared to women who have “casual” love relationships – 80%. For men, 97% of those in a stable relationship were satisfied, compared to 88% of those in casual relationships. The study data is published in the Annals of Epidemiology.