Former Morning Musume member Risa Niigaki has announced that she is expecting her first child.

Niigaki shared the news on her YouTube channel, appearing alongside her husband Yasutake (Yasutake Yamaguchi). "We've been blessed with a new life," she said.

Now 37, Niigaki shared that becoming a mother has always been one of her dreams. She also spoke about her feelings surrounding the pregnancy, acknowledging some concerns while sharing that she has already entered her stable period. "Of course there are worries, but more than anything, I feel happy," she expressed. 

Niigaki added, "For now, I just hope the baby will be born healthy. I'll also be prioritizing my body, so I would be happy if you could continue to support me warmly."