Alamy
The first year of parenthood is in many ways the most exciting and undoubtedly the most challenging. Which is why, when you ask a new parent what it's really like, you'll invariably to get the response, "it's the best thing you'll ever do and the hardest thing you'll ever do".
That's all very well but what expectant parents really want to know is WHY it's the best and hardest thing you'll ever do.
Is it really that tiring? How hard can changing a nappy be? You say you're so busy you don't have time to send a text but what are you actually doing all day? And do those 'special' moments really make up for the sleepless nights?
To help answer these questions and lift the lid on that mysterious first year, we asked new parents to tell us about their biggest highs and lows. Strap yourself in and enjoy the ride...