A very interesting practice that’s become something of a tradition for the Royals, is for new parents to pose with their newborn outside of the hospital. Princess Diana did it, Kate Middleton did it (and most recently did it just hours after giving birth), but Meghan Markle will not.
Kensington Palace released a statement on Thursday confirming that she and Prince Harry decided to keep their upcoming birthing experience private. No immediate post-birth photo shoots, or standing outside of anybody’s hospital wing cheesing when you’re actually…you know…wide open/in pain and trying to recover from the major act of birthing a child. The world will meet their child when they’re ready for the Royal baby to be seen — and not a minute earlier.
The move makes sense, and not just for the obvious reasons. It’s been clear that the press in the U.K., the tabloids specifically, have not been kind to Markle. Coverage of her, from the moment she was revealed as a romantic interest of Prince Harry, has been negative and even racist at times. Not to mention, many stories have been written attempting to pin Markle and Middleton against each other. In all of these instances, Kensington Palace has had to speak out. So one can imagine the couple’s desire to protect their unborn child from the scrutiny, comparisons and online abuse for as long as they can.
The Palace said it will be announced when the Duchess is in labor, and the birth news will be shared. However, they’re not confirming where they’re having the baby, and it likely won’t be at St. Mary’s Hospital, which has been Middleton’s facility of choice.
Whatever happens, Markle and Prince Harry are excited and preparing for the arrival of their child (or children? You never know!). They moved into a new home in the country, Frogmore Cottage, and a source told PEOPLE they’re looking forward to starting this next chapter.
“This is a very happy time for Meghan and Harry,” the source said. “This baby has brought them even closer.”
It’s been a beautiful, glowing pregnancy for Markle. Before we prepare to meet their child, let’s take a look back at how well she’s carried the Royal baby since the good news was announced. Hit the flip for photos: