Kate Middleton underwent a scheduled abdominal operation on Tuesday, January 16.
Kensington Palace reported on Wednesday, January 17, that the procedure was successful, but that the princess will remain in the hospital for 10-14 days.
Fans of Princess Catherine have responded with an outpouring of well wishes on social media, wishing her a speedy and full recovery.
Many have also wondered if Kate hinted at health news at her last appearance.
When was Kate Middleton’s most recent appearance?
The last time Kate Middleton was seen in a public engagement was last December 25, Christmas Day.
On that day she attended with the British Royal Family the traditional annual church service at the Sandringham estate church.
On that occasion Kate was smiling and relaxed, walking hand in hand with her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, while her husband Prince William walked by her side.
After that Christmas appearance, she was not seen at any other public event.
In fact, on January 9, she turned 42 in private, presumably celebrating quietly at her Adelaide Cottage home with her family.
The Palace has not given further details about Kate’s abdominal surgery, but sources close to her said they were informed that it was not cancer.
A statement from Kensington Palace pic.twitter.com/6h3BCrqj5L
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) January 17, 2024
Once she is discharged, Kate will continue to recuperate at home before returning to work in April.
She has apologized for the postponement of her upcoming engagements and hopes to resume her activities as soon as possible.