Royal baby details: Planning goes into high gear for Kate's delivery

(CBS News) The birth of the next royal baby was always going to be a big story. But now, extensive details about Prince William and Kate's plans are coming out.

Catherine, mother-to-be, has officially withdrawn from her public duties to get ready, according to the Palace.

Complete Coverage: A Royal Baby

The Duchess of Cambridge's last official solo appearance was a week ago, when she christened a new cruise ship. Fashion editors were mesmerized by her animal print dress, while everyone else's eyes were on bump underneath. The royal baby is definitely showing, and the due date is some time in mid-July.

Over the past few months, the British media have scrutinized Catherine's every move in case she let slip the sex of the baby. But, as it turns out, the expectant couple -- who were married just over two years ago -- have chosen not to be told if it's a girl or a boy.

Soon-to-be dad Prince William is still on duty as a search-and-rescue helicopter pilot. But he's planning to take a couple of weeks paternity leave and to be in the delivery room when his wife gives birth to the third-in-line to the throne.

The birth is scheduled to take place in the same private wing of St. Mary's, the London hospital where William's mother, Princess Diana, gave birth to him and his brother, Prince Harry.

As soon as the baby arrives, another royal tradition will kick in: an aide will leave the hospital with a birth announcement and drive two-and-a-half miles to Buckingham Palace so it can be posted in the forecourt on an easel, which was last used when Prince William was born 31 years ago on Friday.

But, in a nod to modern times, the notice with the baby's gender, weight and time of birth will also be posted on Twitter.

Watch Elizabeth Palmer's report above.