The Palace confirms: Kate Middleton is pregnant!

A royal congratulations is in order!

It's official: the Palace has confirmed that Prince William and Kate Middleton are expecting their first child.

PHOTOS: Kate Middleton's family album

The news was announced earlier than planned because Duchess of Cambridge - AKA, Kate Middleton, as she is still fondly known - was admitted to hospital due to acute morning sickness.

RELATED: Prince William & Kate Middleton's French holiday!

According to the Palace, the Duchess arrived King Edward VII Hospital in Central London to be treated for hyperemesis gravidarum, which causes severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

The royal couple can't hide their smiles! Prince William andthe Duchess of Cambridge visited Cambridge last week, where Kate debuted a new 'do! Source: Getty

Untreated, it can cause dehydration and weight loss.

The sickness caused Middleton to cancel her next three royal appearances.

While Middleton is struggling in the early stages of her pregnancy, she and Prince William are excited about expecting.

RELATED: 15 years on - Remembering Princess Diana

A statement from the Palace read:

"Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that The Duchess of Cambridge is expecting a baby.

"The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Harry and members of both families are delighted with the news."

As they start their new family, the royal couple will move into the 20-room Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace.
_