Japan’s Crown Prince Naruhito is seeking public understanding for his ailing wife, Crown Princess Masako, who is suffering from a stress-induced ailment.

Japan’s Crown Princess Masako celebrated her 42nd birthday today, as the government considered legal changes that could see her four-year-old daughter Aiko become the country’s first empress in more than 200 years.

JAPAN’S Crown Princess Masako, under intense pressure to produce a male heir, has been diagnosed by doctors as having an adjustment disorder, a psychological condition caused by stress.

Crown Princess Masako gave birth today to a baby girl and, as Japan celebrated, court messengers placed by its pillow the sword and deep purple robes of silk that are the symbols of its lofty position.