Rome: Pope Francis's recovery from surgery is proceeding normally and without issues, the Vatican said on Wednesday, and he is anticipated to be released from the hospital in the coming days.

Francis, 86, underwent a three-hour procedure last Wednesday to fix an abdominal hernia.

His abdominal wall had a mesh prosthetic implanted to aid in healing, and doctors want it to settle and attach securely.

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In order to avoid the strain of standing for too long on Sunday, the pope did not offer his public noon prayer from the balcony of the Gemelli Hospital.

Up until June 18, the Vatican has postponed all of his public and private audiences.

The Holy Father had a sound night's sleep. According to the medical staff's reports, the recovery is going well and without issues, so they anticipate releasing him soon, according to a statement from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni.

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According to Bruni, Francis was working from his hospital room and also spending time in the tiny chapel of the popes-only suite on the 10th floor.

The Sunday blessings are the only public appearances the pope makes in July, so he will have the entire month to rest before his scheduled trip to Portugal from August 2 to August 6 for World Youth Day and to visit the Shrine of Fatima.

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In addition, he will still travel to Mongolia from August 31 to September 4, making it one of his most remote destinations to date.