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Majority of new parents nearly break up in first 12 MONTHS

Many new parents almost split in baby's first year, with financial strain and emotional exhaustion key factors

It's one of the toughest times for all new parents.

But it seems that the first year of a baby's life isn't just a steep learning curve for many new parents learning to care for their newborn - it's one of the hardest times for a couple's relationship too.

New research revealed today that almost half of couples come close to breaking up in the first 12 months of their baby's life, as they grapple with exhaustion, emotions and financial concerns.

A staggering 78 per cent of couples claimed that precious first year to be the most difficult, as the arrival of a baby puts a new pressure on their relationship.

In fact, 47 per cent of couples said they almost called it quits as a result, with many buckling under the strain.


But while most would expect sheer tiredness to be the main catalyst for relationship woes, research by BabyCentre.co.uk showed the financial strain was a key factor.

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The survey revealed that after health, money worries were the issue expectant couples worried about the most.

They could also be the reason as to why more mums return to work early, as eight out of 10 mums-to-be said if money were no object, they would take more maternity leave than they'd planned.

Speaking about the research, Sarah Barrett, BabyCentre’s Managing Editor, said: “Forget the ‘7 year itch’, this ‘12 month itch’ is a very real trend affecting new parents.

"A new baby puts pressure on a relationship as parents are likely to suffer from a lack of sleep, and also feel financially challenged and emotionally exhausted."

She added: "It’s really important that parents recognise they are not alone and get help before these issues start to impact their relationship.”
 
The research also showed that help was at hand for many from grandparents.

Over half of parents-to-be confessed that their parents were likely to have to help out financially once the baby arrived.

Did your relationship feel the strain when your baby arrived? Share your story with us over on Twitter, now.