Become a parent... and bicker

The bust-ups are typically caused by sleepless nights, battles over discipline and routines.

The bust-ups are typically caused by sleepless nights, battles over discipline and routines.

Published Jul 27, 2011

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Couples argue nearly twice as often once they become parents, a study shows.

Before they have children, couples tend to argue seven times a day, but after childbirth that figure jumps to 11 - or 4,015 a year.

The bust-ups are typically caused by sleepless nights, battles over discipline and routines.

And more than half of those are about their offspring. One in four rarely agree about when their children should go to bed, while 21 percent argue about what to feed them.

In fact, the only dispute that stays the same before and after starting a family is money, the survey of 3,000 parents found.

“Before embarking on parenthood, couples should realise the demands this puts on any relationship,” said a spokesman for researcher MumPoll.

“The harsh reality is that while parenthood is filled with joy and happiness, it also goes hand in hand with a lot of hard work and stress.

“No one can underestimate how hard it is to maintain a happy and healthy relationship while adjusting to being a mom and dad.

“Particularly during the early months when you are trying to conduct a normal life while coping with sleepless nights, changes to the routine and lack of time for each other.”

One fifth of those polled said they were regularly annoyed about the house being littered with toys, with the cost of toys also sparking bust-ups.

Household chores are also a big bone of contention, with couples frequently disagreeing about who should do the washing and make beds.

Homework, good manners and spending habits also appear in the top 20 list of gripes.

The fact that it is harder to go out together at the drop of a hat and there are fewer opportunities to have a decent chat also bothers new parents.

The spokesperson added: “Even the strongest of couples finds it hard to get along during the first few months - and arguments become part of everyday life.” - Daily Mail

The Top 10 parental rows

1. How to discipline the children

2. Not having any money

3. Being too busy to see each other

4. The childrens' bedtime

5. What the children should eat

6. Who should tidy up the toys

7. The fact you never talk any more

8. You can't go out together whenever it takes your fancy

9. Who should do the washing

10. How much you are spending on toys and treats for the children

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