The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ended months of intense speculation by announcing that they are expecting their first child one that will instantly become third in line to the throne. But they were forced to share their news earlier than hoped, even with members of their own
family, because of the duchess's admission to hospital on Monday.
News that the duchess is in the "very early stages" of
pregnancy was officially released after she was taken to the King Edward VII hospital in central London, suffering from hyperemesis gravidarun very acute morning sickness. It is understood that she is less than 12 weeks pregnant, but officials were forced to go public because of fears that her hospitalisation would fuel concerns over her health.
The Queen,
Prince Charles and other members of the royal family were only told about the pregnancy on Monday.
The duchess was staying with her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, in Bucklebury, Berkshire, when she became unwell. She was driven to the hospital by private car by
Prince William, who stayed with her until he left at 8.30pm.
St James's Palace said: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that
the Duchess of Cambridge is expecting a baby.
"The duchess was admitted this afternoon to King Edward VII hospital in central London with hyperemesis gravidarum. As the pregnancy is in its very early stages, her royal highness is expected to stay in hospital for several days and will require a period of rest thereafter."
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a rare condition causing severe vomiting during pregnancy, which can cause dehydration, weight loss and a build-up of toxins in the blood or urine. It requires supplementary hydration and nutrients and affects about 3.5 out of 1,000 pregnant women.
Members of both families were said to be delighted at news that the couple are to be parents.
It will be the Queen's third great-grandchild, but it will be the first time in almost 120 years that a serving monarch will experience the birth of a great grandchild in direct succession to the throne. In 1894, Queen Victoria, who reigned until 1901, became great-grandmother to Edward VIII. He later abdicated over his relationship with Wallis Simpson.
It will be a first grandchild for Prince Charles, and also for the duchess's parents.
