Shakira gives birth to her first child

Shakira gave birth this morning, reports say. Photo/AP

Shakira has given birth to her first child.

The 35-year-old Colombian star, whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, asked her fans to pray for her as she was admitted to hospital in Barcelona to be induced this morning.

She gave birth to a boy, who she and her 25-year-old football-player boyfriend Gerard Pique have named Milan Pique Mebarak, reports say.

Milan is the singer's first child.

A source previously told Spanish newspaper La Razon that the couple scheduled the birth so that FC Barcelona footballer Pique could be present during their baby's arrival.

The insider also revealed that the singer had requested a female only medical team, who all signed confidentiality agreements, to assist her during the birth.

The blonde beauty was said to be feeling "increasing discomfort" ahead of the birth and was complaining of "abdominal pressure."

Shakira has been dating soccer player Gerard for around two years and previously said he is the "best thing" to ever happen to her, until she got pregnant.

She said: "This man is the best thing that could have happened in my life. And now the baby!"

- Bang! Showbiz