Gal reveals emergency surgery due to pregnancy blood clot in her brain
Wonder Woman star Gal Gadot has opened up about undergoing emergency surgery after a blood clot was found in her brain during her fourth pregnancy earlier this year.
Writing on Instagram, alongside a photo of her breastfeeding daughter Ori, the 39-year-old actor recalled the ordeal, which happened in February 2024.
"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," she wrote in the caption. "At the end, I decided to let my heart guide me. 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."
Gal went on to say that during her eighth month of pregnancy she was diagnosed with a "massive" blood clot in her brain. This followed weeks of "excruciating headaches" that left the actor confined to her bed, culminating in an MRI which revealed the "terrifying truth".
"In one moment, my family and I were faced with how fragile life can be," she said. "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 mother-of-four continued: "We rushed to the hospital, and within hours, I underwent emergency surgery."
Since then, Gal has made a full recovery, using her post on Instagram to thank the medical professionals who saved her and her daughter's life. "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."
Near the end of her post, Gal reflected on the lessons she's learnt through the ordeal. "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," she said, going on to encourage others who are expecting children to be aware of blood clot risks.
"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)," she warned. "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."
Gal continued: "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."
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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