The double Olympian, from Longtown, and partner Marcus Ellis shared the news today.
Smith, 33, said she and Ellis were “so happy”.
And the Cumbrian has confirmed that she will no longer be competing internationally in badminton after a long and successful career, which has included seven Commonwealth Games medals, a European title and numerous other accolades.
The couple posted the happy news on Instagram with an image of their baby ultrasound scan.
“Life is about to look very different!,” Lauren wrote.
“We’re so happy to share the news that our family is growing 🥰
“This means we won’t be returning to international competition, and are starting a new chapter in our lives.
“We feel incredibly lucky to have had such long careers traveling the world together playing the sport we love. We are going to miss it a lot.
“A huge thank you to @yonex_badminton for the unwavering support, @uk_sport and everyone who has played a role in our careers over the years.
Smith has won a series of top international medals, including at the Commonwealth Games (Image: PA)
“To all the amazing fans, we will miss you the most, but we won’t be disappearing from the Badminton world!
“Marcus will continue to play and coach, in his clubs and at training centres around Europe.
“And I will continue to create content and develop my skills and experience in media, as I grow bigger and bigger and eventually have my own orbit!”
Smith rose from the junior badminton scene in Cumbria to become one of England’s leading players.
She represented Team GB at the Olympic Games in Rio in 2016 and Tokyo in 2020.
She also competed for England at several Commonwealth Games, winning five silver medals in the women’s and mixed doubles – including two at the most recent Games in Birmingham in 2022 – and two bronze medals.
She won mixed doubles gold at the European Games in Minsk in 2019 alongside on and off-court partner Ellis.
