When Is the Royal Baby Due? Kate Middleton and Prince William Confirm Date

The newest member of Britain's royal family—the third child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton—is due in April.

The news was confirmed Tuesday in an emailed statement from Kensington Palace, the Duke and Duchess's office. It read simply, "Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April."

The palace also tweeted the news. "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018," the message read.

While the statement did not reference any media reports, the confirmation serves as a rebuttal to rumors that the royal baby, a brother or sister to the couple's two children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, might be expected earlier.

Cosmopolitan had reported in September that William said, "I may see you sooner than you think" to a midwife during an official visit, sparking speculation that the birth could be imminent.

There's a chance the palace could end up with a scheduling clash. Queen Elizabeth II's birthday is April 21, raising the possibility of two annual royal celebrations at once.

When the baby is born, it will take its place as fifth in line to the British throne, after Prince Charles, the queen's son; Prince William; and George and Charlotte.

The change to the line of succession will push Prince Harry, William's brother, back into sixth place.

The news comes a week after the duchess returned to official royal duties for the first time since announcing her pregnancy. Kate hosted a World Mental Health day reception at Buckingham Palace on October 10.

Early in her pregnancy she has suffered from hyperemesis gravidarum, a side effect involving severe vomiting, far worse than ordinary morning sickness.