It is official: Kensington palace will welcome a new royal baby in spring 2015.
There has been much speculation over the Kate Middleton’s due date since the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announced her pregnancy in early September, but it has now been confirmed that their second child will arrive in April. A press release was issued by palace officials stating that Kate Middleton is still suffering from hyperemisis gravidarum, but that her condition is “steadily improving”.
The Duchess, who has been forced to withdraw from royal duties of late, experienced the same condition when she was pregnant with her first son, Prince George. Expected to return to royal duties tomorrow, the royal couple will be on hand to welcome the President of the Republic of Singapore and Mrs Tony Tan Keng Yam during their London visit. That evening, the Duchess will attend the Wildlife Photographer Of The Year 2014 awards ceremony at the Natural History Museum.
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a complication of pregnancy characterised by intractable nausea, vomiting, and dehydration and is estimated to affect 0.5–2.0 per cent of pregnant women. Considered a rare complication of pregnancy, hyperemesis is often difficult to diagnose since it can be difficult to distinguish from regular morning sickness.
The illness compelled the royal to retreat from the public eye for a while and last week returned to her family home in Bucklebury, Berkshire with Prince George. Her mother Carol is said to be on hand to help her daughter look after the mini prince during the difficult time.
April babies are said to be strong, motivated and competitive – perfect traits for a royal baby. However, they are also believed to be lacking in the art of diplomacy and need to harness the very important skill of patience. Famous April babies include Victoria Beckham and Emma Watson, so the Duke and Duchess could well have a creative soul on board.
Image: Getty