Gal Gadot had a 'massive' blood clot in her brain while she was pregnant
Wonder Woman star Gal Gadot recently revealed that she was diagnosed with a "massive blood clot" in her brain while eight months pregnant with her daughter.
On Instagram, Gadot shared a lengthy emotional post, recalling "one of [the] profound challenges and deep reflections" she had this year, particularly during her pregnancy.
"This year has been one of profound challenges and deep reflections, and I've wrestled with how, or even if, to share a personal story. [In] the end, I decided to let my heart guide me," she began.
"Perhaps this is my way of processing everything, of pulling back the curtain on the fragile reality behind the curated moments we share on social media. Most of all, I hope that by sharing, I can raise awareness and support others who may face something similar," Gadot continued.
The 39-year-old Israeli actress went on to detail how she was diagnosed with a massive blood clot in her brain during her eighth month of pregnancy in February.
"For weeks, I had endured excruciating headaches that confined me to bed until I finally underwent an MRI that revealed the terrifying truth," she said.
"In one moment, my family and I were faced with how fragile life can be. It was a stark reminder of how quickly everything can change, and in the midst of a difficult year, all I wanted was to hold on and live."
According to Gadot, she was rushed to the hospital and underwent emergency surgery.
"My daughter, Ori, was born during that moment of uncertainty and fear. Her name, meaning 'my light,' wasn't chosen by chance. Before the surgery, I told Jaron that when our daughter arrived, she would be the light waiting for me at the end of this tunnel."
'Awareness matters'
The Red Notice star also urged the public, especially pregnant women, to be aware of their condition, particularly concerning Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT).
"Second, awareness matters. I had no idea that 3 in 100,000 pregnant women in the 30s+ age group are diagnosed with CVT (develop a blood clot in the brain). It's so important to identify early because it's treatable," she said. "While rare, it's a possibility, and knowing it exists is the first step to addressing it."
Gadot concluded, "Sharing this is not meant to frighten anyone but to empower. If even one person feels compelled to take action for their health because of this story, it will have been worth sharing."
In March, Gadot announced that she has now welcomed her fourth child with husband Jaron Varsano.
The actress tied the knot with Varsano back in 2008, and they have since been blessed with daughters Alma in 2011, Maya in 2017, and Daniella in 2021.
For her fourth pregnancy, the 38-year-old Israeli actress chose to keep much of her journey under wraps, which is why many of her fans were surprised at her announcement. She previously shared in an interview with women's fashion magazine InStyle how she loves giving birth.
"I love giving birth. I would do it once a week if I could. It's so magical. And I always take epidurals, to be fair, so it's not so painful. Just the moment you feel like you're creating life, it's incredible," she said.
Gadot has become famous for her role as Wonder Woman in a series of DC Film movies, such as Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and her solo films Wonder Woman and its sequel Wonder Woman 1984. She will also play the Evil Queen in the upcoming musical fantasy film Snow White.