Divorce Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding Divorce

Provided by Women's Health

There are plenty of preexisting factors that can lower your chances of divorce. Forget the Vera Wang dress and diamond-studded tiara - here's how to really rock down the aisle:

Hit the Books

Going to college ups your chances of marrying and reduces your risk of divorce or separation by 13 percent. Fewer money woes and a better ability to negotiate help the relationship work.

Play the Waiting Game

Wait until you're over 25 to marry and you'll cut your chances of splitting by 24 percent. With a few extra years to explore the world and the people in it, you're better prepped to choose the right mate.

Bond with Dad

Women who have poor relationships with their fathers are more likely to divorce.Being close to Dad helps you understand men better. If yours is out of the picture, your marriage isn't doomed. Studies show that a good relationship with your husband's father can fill the void.

Find God

Having a religious affiliation decreases your odds of divorce by up to 19 percent -- though it's likely because most religions frown on divorce, not because married believers are necessarily happier.

Ask for a Raise

Couples who earn at least $50,000 a year reduce their chances of divorce by up to 34 percent. Experts believe (duh) it's because they're less likely to argue over money.

Get Knocked Up Later

Having a baby -- after you've been married at least 7 months -- lowers risk of divorce by 24 percent. Couples who wed after procreating often marry because of the kid, not because the relationship is strong.

Marry a Boy Toy

Marriages in which the bride is older than the groom are up to 5 percent less likely to dissolve. Experts aren't exactly sure why, but we're willing to follow Demi Moore's lead on faith alone.

Evan Agostini, Getty Images