How long will the Duchess of Cambridge be in labour for?

Catherine, Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince William photo
(Image credit: Mario Testino)

As Kate arrived at the Lindo Wing at St Mary's hospital with William in London today, the world was watching intently - but we could be in for a long wait...

Even though the Duchess of Cambridge has already gone into labour it could take her hours, if not days, to have her third royal baby.

As it was revealed on the Kensington Palace official Twitter feed early this morning that the Duchess has gone into labour, the world’s media and many royal fans were waiting outside the hospital for the first glimpse of the new royal baby.

So how long will Kate Middleton be in labour for this time?

Kate’s labour durations in the past have varied, with George’s birth taking over 10 hours, while Charlotte was delivered after only a couple of hours.

Prince George Pippa Middleton's wedding

So will we be waiting all day, or is she likely to have it soon?

According to Baby Centre your first labour can be the longest – usually lasting between 8 and 18 hours. However, if it’s a second or third child it can be considerably quicker, with labour likely to last anything from 5 to 12 hours.

So, we could possibly see news of the arrival of baby number three any time soon!

Once the new prince or princess is born, he or she will be fifth in line to the throne, meaning that Prince Harry will move down and be sixth in the royal succession.

If born today, the new royal baby will celebrate its birthday on St George’s day – a national day of remembrance in England.

Good luck Catherine!

Words: Sarah Finley