Women like to split their time between being a mum - and using baby back carriers and swimming nappies - and earning money.

This is according to lifestyle publication Prima, which said this approach to parenting is not always financially viable, meaning some mothers are forced to stay at home full-time when they would like to be engaged in part-time employment.

Features editor Georgina Wintersgill was reacting to recent research by the Centre for Policy Studies, which was carried out in association with the Hera Trust.

It was found that attitudes to being a housewife could be changing and that many women believe this is a rewarding role, suggesting there has been a revival in traditionalism.

Ms Wintersgill remarked: "I'm really surprised if women are actually looking out for a man who will enable them to be stay-at-home mums."

However, she conceded that other options, such as splitting shifts with a partner, can be exhausting and give couples little time to spend together.

Posted by Eileen KirkADNFCR-3005-ID-19631033-ADNFCR