Shakira 'induced'

Shakira reportedly went to hospital to have her baby induced after feeling "increasing discomfort".

The 35-year-old Colombian singer is believed to have been admitted to the Teknon clinic in Barcelona after making an emergency visit on Sunday, according to Spanish online daily La Razón. Shakira was apparently scheduled to have her delivery induced on Monday after she complained of "abdominal pressure".

The star is believed to have been accompanied by her soccer star boyfriend Gerard Piqué and two of his brothers.

La Razón reports that Shakira wanted to push ahead with the labour because she has a series of scheduled professional engagements.

FC Barcelona player Gerard was also believed to be eager to welcome his baby boy sooner rather than later, due to his upcoming soccer commitments.

It has not yet been confirmed if Shakira has given birth.

Last week, Shakira and Gerard went online to show off a series of glamorous maternity portraits. Shakira was proudly sporting a sizeable baby bump as she posed in a bikini top and silk flowing skirt, while a topless Gerard protectively hugged his girlfriend.

"We'd like to celebrate the imminent birth of our first child with all of you," Shakira wrote on Twitter and Facebook.

The superstar pair also revealed plans for a virtual baby shower.

Shakira is a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and asked fans to give donations to underprivileged babies rather than send gifts for their son.

Donations to Shakira's and Gerard Piqué's World Baby Shower can be made online, and gift prices range from $5 for a mosquito net to $110 for special food for malnourished kids.

"Thanks to all of you, they will receive inspired gifts, therapeutic food packets, vaccines and rehydration salts," Shakira explained, referring to the children UNICEF helps.

"We'd like to thank you in advance and we are very, very happy to know that we can count on your support.

"Every couple that's expecting a baby shares our same dreams and hopes for their children. However, many don't have the same opportunities we do to give them a happy childhood free of preventable and easily cured illnesses. Together we can change that."