Meghan Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, has revealed intimate and heartfelt details surrounding the birth of her grandson, Archie Harrison, shedding light on the private moments and family support that helped Meghan during the milestone. Archie, born on May 6, 2019, at London’s Portland Hospital, was a historic arrival as the first biracial grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II.
Doria, a social worker and yoga instructor, was by Meghan’s side, providing emotional strength and comfort throughout the pregnancy and birth. Meghan and Harry chose a relatively private birth setting, despite the intense global media interest. Meghan reportedly stayed calm and positive during labor, employing a pregnancy ball to aid the process and trying nitrous oxide for pain relief before eventually opting for an epidural.
Harry humorously recounted the birth experience, noting a shortage of laughing gas and including lighthearted moments like their quick departure from the hospital to their home at Frogmore Cottage just two hours after Archie’s birth. This private and joyful approach marked a departure from traditional royal births, emphasizing the couple’s desire for intimacy and control over their personal experience.
Doria’s involvement continued to be significant as she temporarily moved into Frogmore Cottage to support the Sussexes while they adjusted to parenthood. The grandmother-grandson bond is described as very close, with Doria often seen helping with childcare and spending quality time with Archie and later, Princess Lilibet.
Their family-oriented approach highlights the importance of Doria’s steady and nurturing presence during a challenging transition for Meghan and Harry, as they balanced royal protocol with their personal needs and the demands of public life. Doria’s revelations offer a glimpse of warmth and humanity behind the high-profile birth story, underscoring the strength of family bonds in royal life.