Latest news with #pregnancy
Daily Mail
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Princess Diana and Kate Middleton both faced the same devastating pregnancy battle
It was news that was met with excited anticipation from not just the British public, but from around the world. Princess Diana was pregnant with the future heir to the throne. But at just 20 years old, she was already struggling with the pressures of royal life and, like her future daughter-in-law Kate Middleton, had terrible morning sickness throughout her pregnancy. Andrew Morton wrote about this in his authorised biography, Diana: Her True Story, after the Princess of Wales took the extraordinary step of recording her innermost thoughts - on the condition that her involvement was kept secret. Sensationally, it exposed the devastating truth about her imploding marriage to the future King Charles and misery within the Royal Family. In October 1981, ten years before recording her tapes for Morton - Diana and Charles took a three-day visit to Wales when she had just found out she was pregnant. In a transcript of one of the princess's tapes, Morton wrote: '[I remember] feeling terribly sick, carrying this child, hadn't told the world I was pregnant but looking grey and gaunt and still being sick. 'Couldn't sleep, didn't eat, whole world was collapsing around me. Very very difficult pregnancy indeed. 'And this family's never had anybody who's had morning sickness before, so every time at Balmoral, Sandringham or Windsor in my evening dress I had to go out I either fainted or was sick. 'It was so embarrassing because I didn't know anything because I hadn't read my books, but I knew it was morning sickness because you just do.' On November 5, 1981, Buckingham Palace announced that the Prince and Princess of Wales were expecting their first child and were 'delighted by the news.' The Palace said: 'The Princess is in excellent health. 'The Princess hopes to continue to undertake some public engagements but regrets any disappointment which may be caused by any curtailment in her planned program.' But behind the scenes, Diana was struggling. She said in the tape: 'Almost every time I stood up I was sick. Suddenly, in the middle of a black dress and black-tie do, I would go out to be sick and come back again and they'd say: "Why didn't she go off to bed?" 'I felt like it was my duty to sit at the table, duty was all over the shop. I didn't know which way to turn at all.' In January 1982 - 12 weeks into the pregnancy - Diana fell down a staircase at Sandringham, suffering some bruising. Diana later confessed that she had intentionally thrown herself down the stairs because she was feeling 'so inadequate'. She said in the tape: 'When I was four months pregnant with William I threw myself downstairs, trying to get my husband's attention, for him to listen to me. 'I had told Charles I felt so desperate and I was crying my eyes out. 'He said I was crying wolf. "I'm not going to listen," he said. '"You're always doing this to me. I'm going riding now." 'So I threw myself down the stairs. The Queen comes out, absolutely horrified, shaking - she was so frightened. 'I knew I wasn't going to lose the baby; quite bruised around the stomach. The princess said in a tape: 'I didn't know which way to turn at all' 'When he came back, you know, it was just dismissal, total dismissal. He just carried on out of the door.' Charles's response was influenced by advice from his friends who felt Diana needed to 'pull herself together', Robert Lacey wrote in his book, Battle of Brothers. However, as Prince William's due date approached, Charles did spend more time with Diana and stayed by her side when their first son was born on June 21, 1982. In doing so, he became the first male royal to be present at a birth. In a letter to his godmother, Patricia Knatchbull, Charles said how he was 'so thankful I was beside Diana's bedside the whole time'. However, his wife's struggles with her mental health would continue. When William was just shy of his fourth birtdhay, Diana fainted during a trip to Canada. She received some help from doctors but still struggled, and her marriage to Charles continued on a downward spiral. They eventually separated in 1992, before divorcing in 1996. Kate Middleton also suffered with morning sickness throughout all three of her pregnancies. In September 2023 she spoke about having hyperemesis gravidarum (severe vomiting during pregnancy) with a another parent during a visit she made to a sensory development class in Kent. Her first pregnancy was announced early, before she reached the typical 12-week point, after she was hospitalised with the condition. Earlier, in 2021, the Princess of Wales launched a major awareness raising campaign to increase public understanding of the crucial importance of the first five years of a child's life. It is set to run for at least five years, and has been described by a Kensington Palace spokesman as her 'life's work'. Kate spoke passionately about the campaign in an open letter published in the Mail on Sunday, in which she set out her plan for 'Shaping Us'. Reports produced by the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood revealed that the first five years of a child's life shape their future wellbeing more than any other stage of development, with our brains growing faster at this time than any other. The centre also hopes to 'break the cycle' for parents who experienced difficult childhoods themselves. Palace aides said the idea for the project began even before Kate became a mother. Kate had the condition during all three of her pregnancies In the years between Diana and Kate's struggles with morning sickness, attitudes have drastically changed. While Diana's experiences were largely dismissed or downplayed, Kate's condition was taken more seriously, with increased medical support and public awareness. Kate's pregnancies brought more scrutiny to the issue of morning sickness, particularly hyperemesis gravidarum. The media played a significant role in raising awareness, leading to more open discussions and a better understanding of the condition.
News.com.au
10 hours ago
- Health
- News.com.au
Brain-dead, pregnant nurse kept on life support gives birth via C-section
A pregnant woman who has been brain-dead since February – and kept alive via life support in order to comply with Georgia's abortion law – gave birth prematurely to a baby boy, ending the months-long medical and ethical ordeal at an Atlanta hospital. Atlanta nurse Adriana Smith, 31, gave birth on June 13, three months premature via C-section, to a baby who weighs 1 pound 13 ounces and is currently in the neonatal intensive care unit at Emory University Hospital Midtown, according to local reports. Smith's family members named the baby Chance and hope he'll get a fighting one himself. 'He's expected to be OK,' Smith's mother April Newkirk told local outlet 11 Alive. 'He's just fighting. We just want prayers for him. Just keep praying for him. He's here now.' Newkirk previously told the press that the boy could be born with a variety of health problems and that the family is hoping his name brings him good fortune, according to reports. As the grandmother prays for her grandbaby's tenuous health, Newkirk's daughter Adriana Smith, who turned 31 over the weekend, will finally be taken off of life support, the outlet reported. 'It's kind of hard, you know. It's hard to process,' she said tearfully. Smith entered herself into Emory University Hospital, where she worked as a nurse, in February, with severe headaches. At the time, she was nine weeks pregnant. She was discharged from the hospital with medication, but soon returned due to the intensity of the headaches. A CAT scan revealed multiple blood clots in her brain. Her health deteriorated while at the hospital, where, within hours, she was declared brain dead. Smith was then moved to Emory Midtown, where doctors have utilised life-supporting technologies to keep her alive to be in compliance with the state of Georgia's LIFE Act, commonly referred to as the 'heartbeat bill.' That law bans any abortion after six weeks of pregnancy and provides foetuses with full legal rights and protections. Newkirk said that doctors had told the family that Smith was being kept alive to maintain compliance with the law, according to The Guardian. 'We didn't have a choice or a say about it,' she said before Chance's birth. 'We want the baby. That's a part of my daughter. But the decision should have been left to us – not the state.' Many believed that Chance would not survive due to the circumstances of his gestation, which further impelled critics of the pro-life policy. 'The chances of there being a healthy newborn at the end of this is very, very small,' Steve Ralston, director of the maternal foetal medicine division at George Washington University, told The Washington Post. The hospital's decision to keep Smith alive drew heavy criticism from pro-choice advocates who claimed the dizzying ethical conundrum and extreme heartache are a result of bad legislation. 'Because of Georgia's cruel abortion ban, Adriana Smith's family is living through a nightmare,' Reproductive Freedom For All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju said in a statement in May. 'Families deserve the freedom to make their own decision about their loved ones, and prolonging their suffering isn't just horrible policy; it's inhumane. Anti-abortion politicians, including Donald Trump and Governor Kemp, need to be held accountable,' the statement concluded. State representatives also weighed in as the controversy reached its peak. 'This is not healthcare. This is sanctioned cruelty,' State Democrat Rep. Kim Schofield said in a statement. The hospital has not publicly commented on the case, citing patient privacy laws. Smith, who also has a seven-year-old son, was due to be taken off life support on Tuesday, 11 Alive reported.
Daily Mail
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Pregnant Sophie Habboo and husband Jamie Laing put on a smitten display as they host Candy Kittens party in London
Pregnant Sophie Habboo and her husband Jamie Laing looked loved-up as they attended their Candy Day event in London on Thursday. The former Made In Chelsea stars, 30 and 36, beamed as they celebrated Jamie's sweet brand Candy Kittens in style. Sophie, who is expecting their first child, was glowing as she showcased her blossoming baby bump in a black floral midi dress. Jamie kept things effortlessly stylish in a white top and grey trousers, finishing the look with a green cap. Also at the event were pals Paloma Faith, Matt Edmondson, and Melissa Tattam. The event comes after Sophie revealed on her and Jamie's newly named podcast NearlyParents, that she has struggled with some aspects of her pregnancy. She confessed that when her second trimester hit, she felt like she was 'dying' and was dealing with a lot of hormones that made her frequently feel irritated. 'This girl has gone from a bit of a b***h to don't come near me,' she quipped. 'Up until week eight, I was smooth sailing. No good aversions, no sickness, so much energy, I was like what is every talking about this is unbelievable. 'Week eight hit and everyone's starting to grate to me a bit. Like that man sat next to me on the plane breathing, like is it illegal if I punch him in the face? 'If you're a fan of the podcast, I love you so much but you're not going to like me if you meet me at the moment.' Jamie said he struggled to get his head around Sophie's mood changes with pregnancy, recalling: 'I asked Sophie if she had any cravings and she said, ''No, the only craving I have is hating you''. 'I then spent an evening on Reddit looking at "Why does your wife hate her husband so much when they're pregnant". He went on: 'Sophie is teaching me to drive and I'm a little bit nervous in the car and she goes "You're a s**t driver". I'm literally in my head going "Oh my god she hasn't eaten this is really scary". 'Sophie then gets so angry she says to me "I'm so angry I want to drive us both into the back of this car and kill us". And then she started crying!' Sophie confessed that the 'anger is uncontrollable' but that it 'was very fleeting' as she lamented how her 'enormous t*ts' also meant she couldn't fit in any of her clothes. Jamie candidly told listeners how he owed her a real apology after not taking her hormones seriously and threatening to leave her over her 'grumpiness'. Sophie said: 'Jamie was like "Oh you're just milking it, you fake all your hormones, there's no such thing". He went "Oh you're just faking all of this." I was like "Oh my god" as I'm lying there with my enormous t*ts out and I can't fit into a single thing.' Recalling the incident in question, she went on: 'We are leaving and I feel really sick this day and Jamie gets his camera out and goes "I'm going to vlog today". Like on my Sunday that I'm about to vomit all day long. 'And what happened was Jamie sits down and he goes "I'm going to call my friends and ask them what I should do about this. Because I'm going to have to leave you. I'm going to leave you because you're just so unbearable right now."' Jokingly pretending to break down in tears, she shared: 'And I went "You're going to leave me and I'm pregnant".' In defence of his actions, Jamie quickly added: 'The amount of people who are going to call me an a*****e. Just a caveat to add - I had no idea the emotional journey that you go on, how your body changes. It comes after the couple took to their podcast to tell their fans all about their impeding parenthood for the first time, where Sophie revealed some of the struggles she'd been dealing with in her pregnancy 'I just didn't understand the extreme things that go on and since having read stuff on Instagram, I am awe of what you go through. The hormone change is wild.' Showing their Chelsea roots, the couple also revealed that Sophie's worst craving so far was for caviar, recounting how they had dashed around London trying to find a shop that was open at 8pm. Jamie explained they eventually found a caviar store only to discover a single pot cost £240, as he declared: 'I was like "Well that craving has to stop there and then". Sophie revealed that after some Googling, she learned it is recommended that pregnant people avoid the expensive delicacy due to the risks of bacteria and mercury. However, she confessed that the risks were the only thing that stopped her from eating it, otherwise, she would not have allowed the hefty price tag to put her off.
The Sun
16 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
I'm having a baby with new boyfriend – but he abandoned me then got woman I loathe pregnant
DEAR DEIDRE: DISCOVERING I was pregnant by my new boyfriend was a welcome surprise and I really embraced the idea of becoming a mum. However, he has really shown his true colours by abandoning me and also getting a woman I loathe pregnant at the same time. I'm 36 and have always longed for a baby. I previously tried for years with a previous partner and even went through IVF on my own, but fertility issues left me with little hope. So I was delighted to discover that I am expecting. My boyfriend is 39 and we'd only been seeing each other a short while, but it didn't take long before the excitement set in. And I really thought we had a future together. Then we had a huge blowout because he was being evasive about us moving in together, and I said he would need to share the load of having a newborn. He stormed out — no goodbye, no explanation, he just vanished, leaving me to face everything alone. I was heartbroken. Just as I was beginning to feel excited about the baby again, he got in touch and dropped a bombshell. He'd got another woman pregnant. She's someone I've never liked. We share mutual friends, and she's always been sly — copying me, making passive-aggressive digs, even trying it on with an ex of mine. We've had our fair share of drama and arguments over the years. Now I feel betrayed all over again. I know technically we weren't together, but he knew how I felt about her. He says he wants to be involved with our baby and step up. But how can I trust him, especially when he's having a child with her too? Dear Deidre: Spotting the signs your partner is cheating DEIDRE SAYS: This is a lot to process, especially after everything you've been through to become a mum. Your ex didn't cheat but it's the emotional betrayal and timing that's so painful. Unprotected sex with someone he knows you dislike, so soon after leaving you, feels like a slap in the face. Does having him involved feel supportive or stressful? You have every right to set boundaries that protect your peace and wellbeing. Co-parenting is possible without rekindling a relationship. Talking to a therapist can help you decide what's best for you. Tavistock Relationships ( 020 7380 1960) can help. GIRL MATE IS SINGLE AGAIN AND I WANT TO MAKE A MOVE DEAR DEIDRE: AFTER years of hiding my feelings, the girl I've always fancied is suddenly single – and now I'm wondering what I should do next. The last thing I want to do is overstep, but I'm terrified if I don't make a move I'll be stuck in the friendzone forever. I'm 27, she's 26, and we've always been close, but I never thought she saw me that way. She was with her boyfriend for a long time, so I kept my feelings to myself and stayed just friends. However, she's recently broken up with him, and I'm not sure what to do. I want to make my feelings known, but I'm worried she might just be looking for a rebound, and I don't want to be the one who gets hurt or used. At the same time, I don't want to wait too long and miss my chance. How do I tell her how I feel? I feel anxious even thinking about it. DEIDRE SAYS: It's normal to worry about being seen as a rebound, especially after someone has just left a long-term relationship. Take things slowly and be a supportive friend first. It's likely she'll probably need some time to heal. When the moment feels right, be honest about your feelings without putting pressure on her. While you can't guarantee that she will reciprocate, being genuine and patient gives you the best chance of building something meaningful. SCARED TO LEAVE ABUSIVE PARTNER DEAR DEIDRE: FOR years, I've been trapped in a toxic relationship with a man who controls every part of my life – emotionally, verbally and financially. Now I finally have the means to leave, I'm terrified. I'm 38, he's 42, we've been together over a decade and have two children. The last few years have been a living nightmare. He constantly puts me down, isolates me from friends, and lashes out in anger that sometimes get physical. I spend every day walking on eggshells, terrified of setting him off. I've wanted to leave so many times, but I've had no money, no support network. But recently, my grandmother passed away and left me an inheritance. It's not life-changing, but it's enough to get out. I feel paralysed by fear. What if I can't manage on my own? I want a better life for my children, but I don't know how to take that first step. Help. DEIDRE SAYS: You've shown incredible strength by surviving this long, and now you have a real chance to break free. It's normal to feel scared, but staying may cause more harm in the long run. Reach out to Women's Aid ( or call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247, who can help you plan your next steps safely. I'm sending you my pack, Abusive Partner?, which offers further support. PAL IN LOVE WITH A SEX OFFENDER DEAR DEIDRE: MY best friend has fallen head over heels for a convicted sex offender, and I'm terrified she's putting love before her child's safety. We are both 37 and have been friends since school. I've always known her to be a great mum to her ten-year-old daughter. But now I'm questioning her judgement. She met this man online about six months ago. Not long into dating, he told her he had a conviction for a sex offence that happened 'years ago'. He claims it was a misunderstanding and that he's a changed man. She believes him completely. Her family and I have tried to warn her to be careful, especially with her daughter at home, but she says we're being judgmental and that she knows him better than anyone. Now he's moved in with them, and I can't shake the feeling that something's not right. Should I leave her to trust her instincts, or is my sense of duty to protect that little girl the right path? I feel torn. What should I do? DEIDRE SAYS: You're right to trust your instincts – when it comes to a child's safety, it's always better to be cautious. It's deeply worrying that your friend is ignoring your concerns. While people can change, sex offences are serious and not to be dismissed. You need to have a very frank conversation with your friend. Explain, firmly but compassionately, that while you love and care for her, you're extremely worried about her daughter's well- being. Let her know this isn't about judging her relationship but about protecting a child. If, after that, she still refuses to listen, you may need to consider raising a safeguarding concern with your local children's services. I'm sending you my pack, Worried A Child's At Risk?, which has further advice and resources.
Daily Mail
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Pregnant Michelle Ackerley reveals the gender of her unborn 'miracle baby' after battle with endometriosis
Michelle Ackerley revealed the gender of her unborn 'miracle baby' as she spoke in a new interview on Thursday. The Morning Live presenter, 40, announced she was expecting her first child with rugby coach husband Benjamin Ryan last month. In an update this week she shared some more details and said that it was 'amazing' to be pregnant after her battle with endometriosis. Speaking to HELLO!, Michelle revealed: 'I'm expecting a little girl in October and it feels very special. 'When I found out I was pregnant, I told my husband, and he said this is a baby miracle. 'I remember coming home after Morning Live, and thinking: "It doesn't feel normal," so I did a pregnancy test just in case.' The TV presenter previously shared that the news came as a 'massive surprise' to her, and said she is proceeding with 'nervous and cautious excitement' amid her ongoing battle with endometriosis. Sharing a series of loved-up snaps with Benjamin to Instagram, alongside a picture of their baby scan, she wrote: 'I can't believe it's nearly been a year since getting married and I honestly didn't think 12months on that I'd be writing a post sharing that I'm pregnant… 'I know this kind of news can be difficult to read for some so I understand if you would rather scroll past on this. 'I wanted to share though as my journey with endometriosis and infertility is something I finally felt confident to start speaking about more openly last year - realising how many other women were going through similar experiences. 'Feeling part of a community - especially when it comes to women's health can really make a difference.' She added: 'Even at the very start of this year I was gearing up for yet another endo procedure and trying to come to terms with the mental & physical impact they can have. It has been quite the emotional rollercoaster. 'The news of falling pregnant really came as a massive surprise to both of us. We still can't quite believe it. And so in October, the start of a new chapter begins for @benryan7s and I, albeit with nervous and cautious excitement. 'I'd like to share more about the journey on here going forward and would love for you to share with me too.' The presenter previously revealed how endometriosis left her struggling with menopause symptoms at the age of 24. Michelle, who has co-presented The One Show on BBC1, was given hormone replacement therapy injections to ease the heavy bleeding and intense pain caused by the long-term condition, in which tissue usually found in the womb grows elsewhere in the body. She said she felt 'embarrassed' when the treatment gave her hot flushes, itchy skin and extreme mood swings, leaving her body 'crumbling'. Michelle said she tried various treatments including painkillers over several years before her gynaecologist suggested hormone replacement therapy injections.
