Princess of Wales in hospital following surgery

The Princess of Wales is in hospital following abdominal surgery, Kensington Palace has announced.

Kate, 42, was admitted to hospital on Tuesday, January 16, for the planned operation and will spend the next 10 to 14 days there, according to a statement.

The Palace said she is not expected to return to official duties until after Easter while she recovers.

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The statement from Kensington Palace said: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to hospital yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.

“The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.

“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.

“Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.

“The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible.”

The news comes after Kate celebrated her 42nd birthday earlier this month. Buckingham Palace marked the occasion with a new behind-the-scenes photo of Kate on the King’s coronation day smiling at her newly crowned