What is a Throuple? Meaning, Benefits, and Challenges

Modern relationships come in many different forms: monogamous partnerships, open relationships, and polyamorous triads like throuples.

What is a throuple relationship? A throuple, or triad, is a non-monogamous relationship involving three people who share equal emotional — and sometimes sexual — connections with each other. Think of it like a romantic triangle where everyone’s on the same page and each side is equally balanced.

For those exploring non-monogamous relationship structures, a throuple can be an incredibly supportive, fulfilling option. But, like any relationship, it comes with its own set of challenges.

Below, we get into throuple meaning, what makes this type of relationship unique, and how to navigate a triad.

A throuple is a type of non-monogamous relationship.

In a throuple, all three members are on equal footing — there’s no primary or secondary partner, no hierarchy. Each person shares an emotional connection with the other two, and in some cases, they may also have a sexual relationship.

Just like any other relationship, throuples can involve different genders, sexual orientations, and unique dynamics.

In some three-way relationships, all partners may agree to date or sleep with other people.

In others, all partners may agree to only have sexual and romantic relationships with one another — a form of polyamory called “polyfidelity”. In this situation, they might refer to themselves as a “closed triad” or “closed throuple”.

In some throuples, everyone is sexually involved with each. In others, not all members have sexual relationships.

Curious about non-monogamous relationships but confused by all the different terms? Let’s clear things up.

• Non-monogamy is a relationship set up where people aren’t exclusive with one another. They may have sexual or romantic relationships with others. It can sometimes involve cheating, but not necessarily.

• Consensual non-monogamy means that everybody knows and consents to one another’s relationships. It’s also called “ethical non-monogamy.” Unlike cheating, it’s all about honesty and consent. Consensual non-monogamy is a subtype of non-monogamy.

• Polyamory is a broad term referring to any consensual non-monogamous relationship involving more than two people. In some cases, these relationships include hierarchies, like primary and secondary partners.

• Throuples involve three people in an equally committed relationship without a hierarchy. Everyone is on the same level, sharing a balanced, mutual commitment.

How Throuples Are Different

Throuples are distinct from other forms of polyamory and non-monogamy.

Being in a throuple isn’t the same as:

• An open relationship, which is where both partners are open to having sexual relationships with other people.

• Unicorn polyamory, where a couple may bring in a third person (usually a bisexual woman) while keeping their existing relationship intact.

• Cheating, because throuples are a form of consensual non-monogamy, meaning that everybody knows and consents to one another’s relationships.

A throuple also isn’t the same as a threesome. Although throuples may have threesomes, throuples go beyond the sexual — they’re also about deeper intimate connections.

Absolutely! It’s perfectly okay to be in a throuple if that’s the relationship structure that feels right for you and your partners.

Throuples — like any relationship — can be healthy and rewarding when there’s mutual respect, clear communication, and emotional openness. Just because a relationship style isn’t “traditional” doesn’t mean it’s less valid or less capable of bringing happiness.

For those who thrive in a non-traditional relationship model, a throuple can be incredibly fulfilling. The key is making sure everyone feels valued, secure, and heard.

So, what makes a throuple worth considering? Here are some perks that come with the territory.

1. Emotional Support from Multiple Partners

Let’s face it. Life can be tough, and sometimes one partner just isn’t enough to cover all your emotional bases.

With a throuple, you have two partners to turn to for support, understanding, and comfort. Different perspectives and personalities mean you might feel a deeper sense of connection and support.

2. Shared Responsibilities and Companionship

Three people in a relationship can mean less strain on any single person when it comes to sharing responsibilities.

Whether it’s handling household tasks, caring for pets and kids, or sharing financial responsibility, having three people might create a more balanced and cooperative environment.

Plus, with three personalities in the mix, you’re likely to experience a broader range of interests and companionship. Each partner brings something unique, keeping things dynamic and adding depth to the relationship.

3. Personal Growth Opportunities

Being in a 3 person relationship often requires enhanced communication, a lot of self-reflection, and emotional honesty  —  all of which can promote personal growth.

Navigating a three-person relationship often means expanding your understanding of love, compromise, and trust, which can build resilience and deepen your self-awareness.

4. Compersion

A major perk of poly relationships is compersion.

Compersion is about feeling happy for your partner when they’re in an intimate relationship with another person. 

You might, for example, feel excited for your partners when they’re about to go on a date together, or get a warm, lovely feeling when you see them snuggle on a couch.

People often describe compersion as the “opposite of jealousy” — but it’s worth noting that you can feel both compersion and jealousy at the same time.

Just like any relationship, throuples come with their share of challenges. Here’s are some aspects that can be difficult to navigate.

1. Managing Jealousy and Insecurity

Jealousy can pop up in any relationship, including in a throuple.

Maybe one partner worries about being left out or feels insecure about the other two getting closer.

To make a throuple work, you’ll have to address your jealousy and insecurity. Feeling jealous and insecure doesn’t make you a bad person, so it’s not about eliminating jealousy or shaming yourself for having emotions — it’s simply about learning to manage your feelings.

The key is open, honest communication. Address feelings as they come up, and make a habit of regular check-ins to ensure everyone feels valued.

2. Time Management and Sleeping Arrangements

With three people, it can be a challenge to ensure everyone gets the quality time they need. Balancing alone time with each partner and group time is essential, but it takes some planning.

Other practical issues — like sleeping arrangements, living arrangements, and throuple sex — can also be tough to navigate.

Finding a setup that works for everyone and gives each person comfort and privacy is key to maintaining harmony.

3. Navigating Societal Judgment and Stigma

Non-monogamy has undoubtedly become more popular. In the US, 1 in 6 people express a desire to engage in polyamorous relationships, with 1 in 9 doing so at some point in their life.

Still, many people are unfamiliar with non-monogamy, and there’s still a lot of stigma around these atypical relationships. Family members, friends, or coworkers may misunderstand you or have deep-seated misconceptions about your relationship.

Building a supportive network of like-minded people or joining non-monogamous communities can help provide a sense of acceptance and understanding when society’s judgment feels heavy.

You might be able to connect with other polyamorous people online or in person.

If you’re in a throuple or considering it, here are some tips to keep things healthy, happy, and balanced:

1. Prioritize Communication

Communication is the lifeblood of any relationship, but in a throuple, it’s non-negotiable.

Regular check-ins, open conversations about feelings, and clear communication about needs and boundaries are essential. The more you can talk openly, the easier it is to build trust and understanding.

2. Set Clear Boundaries and Rules

Establishing mutual agreements and boundaries is key for a balanced, respectful relationship. Everyone should have a say, and it’s helpful to discuss how you’ll handle situations that might arise, like alone time, date nights, or any changes in relationship dynamics.

3. Address Jealousy Openly and Constructively

Jealousy happens, but the key is not to let it fester. Address feelings of jealousy as they come up, and give each person a safe space to talk about insecurities. This can lead to stronger bonds and a better understanding of each other’s needs.

4. Cultivate Individual Relationships

In a throuple, it’s important to spend quality time with each partner individually and together. Balancing one-on-one time with group bonding can help maintain strong individual connections and prevent anyone from feeling left out.

5. Seek Support and Connect with Like-Minded People

There are many online communities and resources dedicated to ethically non-monogamous relationships. Finding like-minded people can provide a sense of community and understanding.

It’s also a good idea to look for resources relating to ethically non-monogamous relationships, like podcasts and books.

A throuple isn’t for everyone, but for those open to non-monogamous relationships, it can offer an incredibly supportive and fulfilling dynamic.

Here’s the TL;DR on throuples:

• Throuples are a form of polyamorous relationship. Also known as a triad relationship, it’s a situation where three people are in an equally committed relationship with one another.

• Throuples have their benefits and challenges. Being in a triad can have its perks (like emotional support and sharing responsibility) and challenges (managing jealousy, time, and societal stigma).

• But being in a throuple can be just as rewarding as being in a two-person relationship. Throuples can be super healthy, as long as there’s communication and respect – like any other relationship style!

If you’re considering a throuple, take the time to understand your own needs and communicate openly with potential partners. With the right mindset and approach, a throuple can offer a rich, dynamic experience that’s well worth the journey.