The Duchess of Cambridge is pregnant again, it has been officially announced. Just over a year since the birth of Prince George Kate and Prince William are expecting a second baby.
The news was announced in a tweet from Clarence House.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that The Duchess of Cambridge is expecting their second child
- Clarence House (@ClarenceHouse) September 8, 2014
Clarence House announced the news because Kate is suffering from severe morning sickness or hyperemesis gravidarum, as she did in the early stages of her pregnancy with Prince George.
However, she has not been taken to hospital and is being treated at Kensington Palace by surgeon gynaecologist to the Queen, Alan Farthing, who was present at Prince George's birth. Depending on her level of sickness, she may require supplementary hydration, medication and nutrients.
A royal spokeswoman said Kate is less than 12 weeks pregnant. Traditionally, women wait until the 12-13 week scan before announcing their news. The royals decided to seize the news agenda in expectation of increased speculation should the Duchess be forced to cancel official engagements.
The story continues after this video.
Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted he was 'delighted by the the happy news that they're expecting another baby'. See the best Twitter responses to the royal baby news here.
The Duchess, 32, will no longer accompany Prince William, 32, on their planned engagement in Oxford today, Clarence House said. She was due to travel to Malta for her first solo official visit later this month. No decision has yet been made on her ability to travel.