Once you have another little human to look after, all parents know you can kiss goodbye to your routine as you know it. So what are some of the things you miss most about your pre-parenthood life?
That was a question put to 2,000 mums and dads in a survey by Pampers Pure Protection. They found among the top 50 things parents reminisced about were a spotless house, Saturday morning lie-ins, and going to the toilet undisturbed.
But while two thirds of them admitted life was much easier before they had children, 71% agreed they are happier and more fulfilled now they have a family.
In the poll, almost seven in 10 adults underestimated the impact their first child would have on their lives and admitted that compromises had to be made in many areas.
Four in 10 parents said they missed the days they could spend money guilt-free, while a further 35% said they’d simply like a bath or shower on their own. Other things parents missed most included being able swear whenever they wanted to, being able to finish a cup of tea before it goes cold, and romance.
And for women – pre-baby boobs and a toned stomach were sorely missed, as was the time to have nails and hair done properly.
Despite having to make life adjustments, almost nine in 10 parents said having a child is the best thing they have ever done, and 93% believed anyone going into parenthood should be prepared to make a few lifestyle changes.
Top 50 things parents miss most:
Saturday morning lie-ins
A clean and tidy house
Watching television in complete peace
Leaving the house at a moment’s notice, without having to worry about a babysitter
Spending money guilt free
Having a shower or bath without being disturbed
Date nights
Going to the toilet without being disturbed
Holidays out of term-time
Getting a full night’s sleep
Sitting in the sun on holiday without having to entertain a child
Browsing the shops rather than rushing round
Nights out with friends
Romance
Being able to pop to the shops when you want
A toned stomach
Adventurous or cultural holidays
Silence
Just sitting down to read a book during the day
Sex
Being able to relax in a pub beer garden
Cheap holidays
Not being asked ‘Why’ all the time
Having a car journey in peace
Suffering a hangover without having to look after a child at the same time
Watching grown-up TV during the daytime
Being able to finish a cup of tea before it goes cold
Snacking on treats without having to share them, or eat them in secret
Going to the cinema to watch anything other than an animation
Pre-baby boobs
Being able to travel light when you go away
Being able to have your hair / nails done guilt free
The days when you could watch your own film instead of watching the same kid’s film over and over
Not having to watch what you say or talk in code because of ‘little ears’
A clean car
Daytime drinking
Not having to always be wondering where the nearest toilet is, in case they need a wee
Not having to fork out on babysitters (if you even manage to go out)
Being able to swear whenever you want
Sitting down to read the newspaper with a morning coffee
Spa days
A good diet
Being able to go down the stairs without navigating a stair gate
Being able to do a wash without having to check the pockets of everything going in
Being able to listen to your music in the car instead of nursery rhymes
Being able to listen to music or the radio ‘normally’ instead of the same kid’s song on repeat
Having a small car instead of a people carrier
Having make up in your handbag instead of wet wipes
Being able to plug things in without having to always remove the plug adapters first
Not smelling a bit like baby sick all the time.
What do you miss since having kids? Is it on the list above? If not, send in your suggestions to amy.packham@huffpost.com.
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