The Royal Family has endured a difficult year as a result of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle standing down from senior duties, and Prince Andrew’s controversial friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Yet, many observers are hopeful a new addition will be welcomed to the world by one of the Royal Family’s more senior members, with speculation surrounding whether Kate, Princess Eugenie or Princess Beatrice will be next to announce their pregnancy. But with experts claiming Kate could be ready to welcome her fourth child to the Cambridge fold, it has emerged how the Duchess’ health became a top priority amid complications while she was pregnant with son Prince George.
The Duchess of Cambridge snubbed the traditional plans for birthing, which routinely involved giving birth at Buckingham Palace, by opting to welcome her son into the world at a hospital.
Kate, however, was unable to follow the established royal protocol after suffering with a bout of hyperemesis gravidarum, an acute morning sickness which requires supplementary hydration and nutrients.
Before George arrived, Kate was admitted to the King Edward VII Hospital, London, in order to be treated for the condition back in 2012.
After her visit was confirmed by the Palace, ABC News royal expert Victoria Arbiter explained that this “complication” would ensure she followed her mother-in-law Princess Diana in giving birth in hospital.
She said: “Kate will definitely give birth in a hospital, certainly if she is still enduring complications such as this.
“They’ll be keen for Kate to get the best care possible because ultimately she is carrying the heir to the throne.”
Ms Arbiter added: “They’ll want to be in a hospital for the best facilities, the best level of care in case any complications arise [since] Kate could be considered a high-risk pregnancy.”
Ms Arbiter predicted that Kate’s husband Prince William would want George to arrive in the Lindo wing of St Mary’s Hospital, London, like he was when his mother Princess Diana gave birth to him.
JUST IN: Kate Middleton body language shows ‘strong’ relationship with William
Other ways the likes of Kate have exposed they are expecting, include refusing alcoholic drinks while attending visits to other countries, including the trip to Ireland, where a traditional pint of Guinness is enjoyed.
It comes as the Duchess of Cambridge sparked widespread excitement after she appeared on the Happy Mum, Happy Baby podcast to discuss parenthood.
She revealed that all mothers suffer from “mum guilt”, and that “anyone who doesn’t as a mother is lying”.
The royal added: “There’s such a pull, but I am such a hands-on mum, and whatever you’re doing you want to make sure you’re doing the uttermost best job you can for your children.”
