Apparently Meghan Markle is opting out of a traditional maternity leave

Here's everything to know...

(Image credit: Shutterstock/Rex)

Here's everything to know...

The royal calendar these past few months has undoubtedly been busier than most - and no one knows this more than Meghan Markle.

From her May wedding to Prince Harry and becoming a Duchess, to moving into several homes and of course embarking on her first ever long haul royal tour to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga, it’s safe to say she’s been very busy.

It’s hardly surprising therefore that when it was announced that the 37-year-old was expecting a baby with Prince Harry, due in Spring 2019, everyone expected the Duchess to take a much needed break - especially after the year she has had.

(Image credit: REX)

Meghan however has made it clear that she’s not going to take a traditional maternity leave and will instead be working up until the very last minute, with the Duchess reportedly eager to continue her official visits and charity work.

In fact, there are even reports that she has a new project on the way.

'Meghan has told aides she wants to work as close to her due date next spring as possible,’ a source told Vanity Fair. ‘And she is expected to announce a collaboration with at least one more charity by the end of the year.’

kate middleton hats

REX/Shutterstock
(Image credit: REX/Shutterstock)

While there are no set rules when it comes to royal maternity, it is probable that Meghan will follow after her sister-in-law Kate Middleton who took a four month maternity leave with Princess Charlotte, and an even longer one with Prince Louis.

Like Kate though, Meghan will be expected to come out of maternity leave on the odd occasion, with Kate coming out of maternity leave to make an appearance at Harry and Meghan’s wedding as well as the Queen’s birthday celebrations.

Congratulations again to Meghan and Harry!

Jenny Proudfoot
Features Editor

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. She has worked at Marie Claire UK for seven years, rising from intern to Features Editor and is now the most published Marie Claire writer of all time. She was made a 30 under 30 award-winner last year and named a rising star in journalism by the Professional Publishers Association.