According to insurer LV=, an estimated 4.3 million women are the main breadwinners in their households, all earning substantially more than their male partners.

LV= polled 3,900 women and men aged 25 – 59 about the rise of the female breadwinner over the years.

Where the vast majority (59%) of yesterday’s women accepted traditional gender roles, that’s certainly not the case for today’s power ladies.

The proportion of women in their 20s and 30s that earn demonstrably more than their partners has leaped from 26% to 41% over the last three decades.

The average female breadwinner earns £51,965, while their gents earn just £37,965 – meaning that millions of women are now bringing in up to 37% more per year than their other halves.

Over half of these female breadwinners claimed to have always earned more than their husbands and boyfriends.

One in 10 said they would refuse to ever date a man who earns more than her.

In fact, 40% of households are now reliant on the female breadwinner’s income which means that the household would not be able to cope should she stop working.

Mark Jones, LV= head of protection, said: “This research certainly throws up some interesting findings and it’s fantastic to see antiquated stereotypes being challenged.

“However, it is worrying that so few have any financial safeguards in place for protecting their lifestyle as it can put them in a precarious position.

“Whether it’s the man or the woman that is the higher earner, the responsibility of having others relying on your salary means it’s important to consider what would happen if you were unexpectedly unable to work due to illness, accident or unemployment? We would encourage people to ensure they have a backup plan which could offer them financial support, especially if they have children.”