Sophie nearly died during Lady Louise's birth: royal birth drama recalled
Lady Louise—daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh—arrived around four weeks early
As Princess Beatrice bravely opens up about the early arrival of her daughter Athena, royal watchers are drawing parallels to another frightening royal birth—Lady Louise Windsor’s dramatic entrance into the world more than two decades ago.
Born on November 8, 2003, Lady Louise—daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh—arrived around four weeks early, following a terrifying medical emergency for her mother, Sophie.
At the time, the Duchess suffered severe internal pains and was rushed to Frimley Park Hospital, where she was found to be dangerously ill from massive blood loss. Doctors performed an emergency C-section, saving both mother and baby. Sophie, then 38, nearly died during the ordeal and was separated from her daughter for six days after the birth.
Weighing just 4lbs 9oz, baby Louise spent two weeks in intensive care at St George’s Hospital in London.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond recalled the harrowing moment: “I remember exactly where I was when I got the call. Sophie had lost pints and pints of blood… she almost lost her life. Louise holds a very dear place in their hearts.”
Lady Louise, now 21, has grown into a poised and private young royal, often praised for her grace and close bond with the Queen before her passing.
Meanwhile, Princess Beatrice recently revealed the premature birth of her daughter Athena, born on January 22, 2025.
In a British Vogue interview, Beatrice opened up about the emotional whirlwind of her daughter’s early arrival, writing: “Nothing quite prepares you for the moment when you realise your baby is going to arrive early.”
Athena is said to be “doing really well”—and proud dad Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi took to Instagram to celebrate their daughter’s strength.
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