Gal Gadot says she was diagnosed with 'massive' blood clot in her brain during pregnancy

Pamela Avila, USA TODAY
·4 min read

After welcoming her fourth child in March, Gal Gadot revealed Sunday that during the eighth month of her pregnancy, she was "diagnosed with a massive blood clot in my brain."

The "Wonder Woman" star shared a photo of herself breastfeeding her then-newborn baby and wrote a lengthy caption, which began, "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."

"At the end, I decided to let my heart guide me," Gadot continued. "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."

The "Snow White" actress then disclosed that in February, which marked her eighth month of pregnancy, she was diagnosed with a blood clot in her brain. Gadot detailed her symptoms, which included enduring "excruciating headaches that confined me to bed, until I finally underwent an MRI that revealed the terrifying truth."

Actor Gal Gadot attends the opening night gala for the 36th Israel Film Festival at Saban Theatre on November 13, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California.
Actor Gal Gadot attends the opening night gala for the 36th Israel Film Festival at Saban Theatre on November 13, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California.

"In one moment, my family and I were faced with how fragile life can be," she wrote. "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."

The 39-year-old, who is married to film producer Jaron Varsano, wrote that at the time, they rushed to the hospital and within hours, she had undergone emergency surgery. "My daughter, Ori, was born during that moment of uncertainty and fear," she shared. "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," Gadot added. "Thanks to an extraordinary team of doctors at @cedarssinai and weeks of dedicated care, I made it through and began the road to recovery. Today, I am fully healed and filled with gratitude for the life I’ve been given back."

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Gadot shared on March 6 in an Instagram post that she had given birth to Ori, and wrote at the time that although pregnancy "was not easy," she "made it through."

Gadot shares three other daughters with Varsano including Alma, born in 2011, Maya, born in 2017, and Daniella, born in 2021.

Read the rest of Gal Gadot's statement: 'While it's rare, it's a possibility'

"The journey has taught me so much. First, it’s vital to listen to our bodies and trust what it’s telling us. Pain, discomfort, or even subtle changes often carry deeper meaning, and being attuned to your body can be life saving.

More: Hospitals gave patients meds during childbirth, then reported them for illicit drug use

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. While rare, it’s a possibility, and knowing it exists is the first step to addressing it. 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 a follow-up comment on her post, Gadot added: "Giving birth is a miracle, a testament to the strength and resilience of our bodies and spirits. But it also demands so much from us, reminding us to care for ourselves as fiercely as we care for others.

More: Maternal deaths are dropping, but these moms still face high risk.

As we celebrate Hanukkah, a holiday of light and miracles, I reflect on the personal miracle I was granted. My daughter, Ori, is a constant reminder of resilience, hope, and the strength we carry within. My wish is that we all find our light, experience our own miracles, and continue to advocate for our health and for one another 💛

Happy Hanukkah, and may this year bring us all health, strength, and light."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gal Gadot reveals she had blood clot in her brain while pregnant

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