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Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge / ˈkeɪm brɪdʒ /, have released an official announcement that they are expecting a third baby.
The announcement was released after Kate cancelled a public engagement due to severe morning sickness, a condition that affects expecting mothers.
Reports say that it was Kate who was determined to have a third child because she is also one of three siblings. Meanwhile, William was more reluctant because of the Duchess’ past difficulties with pregnancy. Currently, Kate is experiencing attacks of severe nausea, which she also experienced while carrying her first child.
The new child will be fifth in line to the British throne regardless of its gender.
Prior to the birth of Prince George, Kate and William’s eldest, the rules of succession to the British throne had been changed. Under the old law, male children take precedence over their older sisters. However, with the new law, succession to the crown does not depend on gender anymore, but on age.
Currently, Prince William’s father Prince Charles goes first in the order of succession, followed by William himself. He is followed by his children—George, Charlotte, and the upcoming baby—in the order of their birth.
The birth of the first two royal children also became major public affairs. Kate gave birth to them at St. Mary’s Hospital, a private facility that specializes in complex pregnancies and deliveries. For their third baby, the Duchess is planning to give birth at home. However, during Kate’s previous pregnancies, she was advised by doctors that home birth was too risky for her. Official announcements about the final birth method have not yet been released.