Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, will undergo a hysterectomy operation today (05.03.07).Camilla, 59, checked into London's private King Edward VII Hospital for Officers just before 11pm last night (04.03.07).The duchess, who arrived in a chauffeur-driven car, reportedly begged husband Prince Charles to accompany her to the hospital and stay for the operation.A source told Britain's News of the World newspaper: "Camilla doesn't want to be there by herself when she first goes in. It's important she has a friendly face at her side when she arrives. She has known about the operation for a few months but it's still a daunting prospect."Charles was not expected to stay with the duchess last night, but will visit during her four-day stay.Camilla's royal engagements have been postponed for six weeks to allow her to recover from the operation, which involves the removal of all, or part, of the womb.Hysterectomies are recommended for several medical conditions. These include cancer, irregular bleeding, fibroids - lumps in the uterus - and endometriosis - when the womb lining comes away and sticks to other parts of the body, such as the bladder.

Clarence House insisted Camilla's surgery was not cancer-related.

The duchess has just returned from a 10-day tour of the Gulf with Charles.

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