How Meghan Markle’s Birth Plans Are Breaking Royal Tradition

Meghan Markle hasn’t been a traditional royal, and her rule-breaker tendencies will continue as she plans for the birth of her first child with Prince Harry.

It’s only been a year since Meghan announced her engagement to Prince Harry, but she apparently “has had enough of the pressure on her to adhere to tired conventions,” according to Grazia (via Life and Style). This time, however, she isn’t just ditching pantyhose or wearing an off the shoulder neckline. The Duchess of Sussex wants to have a home birth.

“She is a huge advocate of home births, but British royals are expected to give birth at the Lindo Wing of St. Mary’s Hospital in London,” an anonymous source claimed. “Meghan doesn’t want what she calls a ‘medicalized’ birth, and instead wants to have a pool set up in a relaxing environment. Even Harry found this surprising, but Megs wants to ensure her birth is as natural as possible.”

The Lindo Wing has been the birth place of many recent royals. Princess Diana gave birth to Harry and Prince William there. Princess Anne birthed Peter and Zara Phillips at the London hospital, and Kate Middleton did the same for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Even non-royals, like Meghan and Harry’s friends George and Amal Clooney, have chosen the highly-respected maternity ward.

It’s surprising that Meghan reportedly doesn’t want to go to the hospital, but expect a large team of professionals to be nearby if she does give birth at home. The risk for complications is higher for a pregnant woman over age 35. The Duchess of Sussex is 37.

The insider also claims that the “Suits” alum has big plans for after the royal baby is born. She allegedly wants to breastfeed in public to help fight the stigma against it and wants to make sure Prince Harry is photographed holding the child.