Kate ‘doing well’ in hospital as she begins recovery after abdominal surgery

King Charles will attend hospital next week for an enlarged prostate, while the Duchess of Cambridge was admitted on Tuesday for abdominal surgery.


The Princess of Wales remains in hospital after abdominal surgery, with sources saying she is “doing well” but will spend up to three months recovering.

Kate was admitted on Tuesday for the successful, planned procedure but is expected to stay in the private London Clinic for 10-14 days before returning to her Adelaide Cottage home in Windsor.

The Prince of Wales is to take time off, stepping back from all official duties for several weeks, while he juggles looking after their children - Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis - with caring for his wife.

The nature of the princess’s condition has not been revealed although Kensington Palace confirmed it was not cancerous.

Meanwhile, the King is preparing for a corrective procedure after being diagnosed with a benign enlarged prostate.

Buckingham Palace, in an unprecedented double royal health scare, announced the news just an hour and a half after Kensington Palace revealed Kate’s operation.

The 75-year-old monarch will be admitted to hospital next week.

He was said to be keen to go public with his condition to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked.

Ian Eardley, consultant urological surgeon in Leeds and national clinical director for NHS England, said the King’s openness would lead to a rise in those seeking help.

One in every three men over the age of 50 will have symptoms of an enlarged prostate including needing to visit the toilet more frequently, with more urgency and have difficulty emptying their bladder.

He is said to be in touch with the Wales', with a source describing them as a “close family”.

Charles with his daughter-in-law Kate at a Bond premiere in 2021 Credit: Chris Jackson/PA

The princess is not expected to return to public duties until after Easter based on current medical advice, Kensington Palace said.

A spokesperson said the princess wanted to share news of her surgery to explain to those affected by the postponement of her engagements.

“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,” they added.

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

The King had a series of meetings and events planned on Thursday and Friday, which have been postponed on his doctor’s advice.


Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...