Why Meghan took a longer maternity leave than Kate

The Duchess of Sussex will make her official return to royal duties this week, ending her maternity leave.

Meghan, 38, gave birth to her first child with Prince Harry, son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6.

The new mum took a longer leave than the Duchess of Cambridge did for her first child.

Following the birth of Prince George in 2013, Kate took one month off before returning to royal duties. However, she took a longer period of leave – seven months - following the birth of Prince Louis in 2018.

This is thought to be because she wanted to spend more time with all three of her children, including Princess Charlotte, four.

Meghan hasn't exactly been idle during her maternity leave, making select public appearances including Trooping the Colour in June, and at the London premiere of The Lion King on July 14.

She was also guest editor of British Vogue's September issue, however the majority of the work towards this was done before Archie was born.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will travel to South Africa with Archie, four months, for a 10-day tour on September 23.

While Prince Harry heads to Botswana, Angola and Malawi, Meghan will carry out several royal visits in South Africa.

They will reunite in Johannesburg for the final days of the tour before heading back to Britain.