Gwen Stefani finds balancing work and home life a "nightmare".

The No Doubt singer would always put raising sons Kingston, five, and three-year-old Zuma - her boys with husband Gavin Rossdale - ahead of her music career if she were forced to choose.

She told Closer magazine: "I've never been able to balance being a mum and my singing career - it's a nightmare.

"I love my boys, so if there's a decision to make, they come first."

Gwen has previously admitted she doesn't want to "regret" not spending enough time with her children when they were young.

She said: "I think what I'd like to do is enjoy these boys while they're young - so I don't regret I was working too much when they're big and don't want to cuddle me anymore."

As a parent Gwen - who lives with her family in London - likes to encourage her children to be creative, but admits they sometimes "horrify" her with their fashion choices.

The 'Wind It Up' singer - who has her own fashion line L.A.M.B. - said: "I like them to be creative and have fun. Sometimes they'll get dressed and it's horrifying. But they often come out in outfits that are awesome."