Meghan Markle might have to give birth in hospital instead of Frogmore Cottage

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Meghan Markle had reportedly been hoping for a natural birth at home with Prince Harry, but experts believe she may be forced to go into hospital.

Speculation has been rife in recent days that the Duchess of Sussex may already have given birth in secret, but there has still been no official word of a new royal’s arrival.

Palace sources said the royal baby has not yet been born and on Saturday, Prince Harry cancelled the first day of his trip to The Netherlands next week fuelling speculation Meghan is yet to go into labour.

Doctors believe the Duchess, 36, may now be a week overdue, dashing her hopes of a natural birth at Frogmore Cottage, where she lives with Harry on the Queen’s Windsor estate.

As time goes on, the chances Meghan will face an induced labour in hospital increase, experts have said.

They say unless Meghan gives birth in the next 48 hours, it is increasingly likely she will give birth at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey, 15 miles from Frogmore Cottage.

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Induction is typically offered seven to ten days after the due date, although it can be left as late as two weeks if mother and baby are ‘well and fit’.

The Sussexes reportedly hope to give birth privately at home and announce the new royal baby a few days later.

According to palace sources, Meghan is said to be ‘comfortable and happy’ at Frogmore Cottage and ‘getting plenty of fresh air in the garden’ as she waits for her baby’s arrival.

Her mother, Doria Ragland, is with her and on hand to help with childcare after the baby is born.

Buckingham Palace will announce when the Duchess goes into labour, but not whether she has been admitted to hospital.

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A second announcement will be made after the baby is born, when aides expect to be able to reveal details of the baby’s gender, birth weight and place of birth.

The news will be confirmed only after the new parents have had the chance to tell their family and friends.

Kensington Palace announced on Wednesday that the Duke of Sussex would be visiting Amsterdam on May 8 and May 9 to officially launch the one year countdown to the Invictus Games 2020.

But he cancelled the first day of the trip due to ‘logistical planning’ – leading many to speculate that Meghan has not yet given birth.

Harry has confirmed he will still take part in an engagement next week, and is scheduled to travel directly to The Hague on Thursday May 9 instead of staying overnight, but this could also be cancelled.