Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently commemorated their daughter Princess Lilibet’s fourth birthday by sharing a personal moment from their journey to parenthood. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex posted a video clip that captured them dancing together in the hospital just before Meghan gave birth, celebrating a joyful and intimate milestone in their lives.
The video, filmed at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in California, where Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021, shows the couple dancing to a popular tune in what appears to be a labor suite. The lighthearted clip, which Meghan captioned with humor and sentiment, noted that both of her children were born a week past their due dates, prompting her and Harry to try various methods to induce labor — including dancing.
This kind of activity is not unusual or medically discouraged. According to guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), gentle physical movement, including walking or light dancing, may help prepare the body for labor by encouraging fetal descent and enhancing circulation. While there is no guaranteed natural method to induce labor, many expectant mothers find dancing uplifting and empowering in the final days of pregnancy.
Social Media Reactions and Misinformation
Despite the video’s joyful tone, some social media users responded with skepticism, questioning the authenticity of Meghan’s pregnancy based on the video alone. These reactions often referenced unfounded theories and personal opinions not supported by any medical or official documentation.
It is important to note that there is no official evidence or confirmation suggesting the use of surrogacy by the Sussexes. All verified reports indicate that Meghan Markle gave birth to both her children — Prince Archie in 2019 and Princess Lilibet in 2021 — and no reputable medical or legal source has contradicted this.
According to Royal.uk, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor was born on June 4, 2021, at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in California. Her birth was registered in accordance with U.S. law, and the family publicly announced her arrival via their nonprofit organization Archewell.
Understanding Pregnancy Diversity
Concerns expressed online about the “appearance” or “movement” of Meghan’s baby bump during the video are not grounded in medical science. According to Dr. Charlsie Celestine, OB-GYN and board-certified physician, pregnancy manifests differently in every individual. “Just as bodies vary in shape and size, the pregnant belly is different for each individual,” she explained in an educational interview with health publications.
Medical professionals consistently emphasize that there is no single ‘correct’ way for a pregnancy belly to look or move, and variation in size, shape, and movement is completely normal. The NHS also states that many factors — such as muscle tone, the baby’s position, and the mother’s body type — affect how a pregnancy presents externally.
Celebrating a Family Milestone
The video posted by Meghan and Harry was intended as a light-hearted, celebratory moment reflecting on their daughter’s birth. Sharing personal content like this has been part of the couple’s approach to public life since stepping back from official royal duties in 2020.
Although public interest in the Sussex family remains high, it is important that discussions about their personal lives — especially those involving their children — remain respectful and rooted in facts.
Lilibet, named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s childhood nickname and Princess Diana, is currently seventh in the line of succession to the British throne. Her older brother, Prince Archie, is sixth. The line of succession is governed by British law and maintained publicly by the official royal family website, which includes children born both inside and outside the UK.
Addressing Online Misinformation
Over the years, several unverified rumors and speculative claims have circulated about the Sussexes. These include commentary from individuals not affiliated with any official royal body or medical institution. While public figures often face scrutiny, it is critical to differentiate between opinion and verified fact, especially on platforms that can influence public perception.
Surrogacy, while a valid and legal path to parenthood for many families, is not a subject to be used for speculative or invasive commentary — particularly without any supporting evidence. Using this topic to question the legitimacy of someone’s family not only undermines public discourse but also affects the dignity of the children involved.
Why Accurate Information Matters
The spreading of misinformation — particularly regarding topics like childbirth, parenting, and medical decisions — can contribute to unnecessary public confusion and stigmatization. As digital platforms evolve, the responsibility to fact-check and rely on trusted sources becomes more important than ever.
Official resources to verify information about pregnancy, childbirth, and royal protocols include:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for medical advice.
- Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital for birth location verification.
- Royal.uk for information on the line of succession.
- NHS for pregnancy and childbirth guidelines.
Final Thoughts
The birth of a child is a deeply personal experience. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry chose to commemorate Lilibet’s birthday by reflecting on a special moment before her arrival — one filled with joy, anticipation, and togetherness.
Rather than fueling unsupported narratives, this moment offers a glimpse into the couple’s parenting journey, underscoring the emotional and physical realities of pregnancy. As with all families, their story deserves to be treated with care, respect, and grounded understanding.
For accurate updates and official statements regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and their family, always refer to trusted news outlets and official royal or nonprofit sources.
