Gal Gadot recently opened up about a harrowing experience during her pregnancy that shocked her and her family. In an Instagram post, she revealed that she was diagnosed with a massive blood clot in her brain while eight months pregnant. Sharing her experience, the ‘Wonder Woman’ actress shared that she endured excruciating headaches that left her bedridden for weeks. The experience sheds light on the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical help when something feels off.
“It's vital to listen to our bodies” Gal Gadot
— Gal Gadot (@GalGadot) December 29, 2024
In the shared post, ‘Wonder Woman’ described how she faced a significant health crisis during her eighth month of pregnancy. “I had endured excruciating headaches that confined me to bed, until I finally underwent an MRI that revealed the terrifying truth,” wrote Gal Gadot. Rushed to the hospital, she underwent emergency surgery, during which she gave birth to her daughter, Ori. She chose the name Ori, meaning "my light," symbolizing hope amid uncertainty.
Now fully healed, Gadot emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and raising awareness about conditions like cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) that can affect pregnant women.
ALSO READ: Meet Generation Beta: Babies Born from 2025 to 2039 Will be Called Gen Beta
What Is Cerebral Venous Thrombosis (CVT)?
According to a study published on PubMed, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare but serious condition characterised by the formation of a blood clot in the brain's venous sinuses, responsible for draining blood from the brain. When a clot forms, it obstructs normal blood flow, leading to increased pressure within the brain. This can cause symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, seizures, and in some cases, neurological deficits similar to those seen in strokes.
Dr Jaideep Bansal, HOD and Senior Consultant at Saroj Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi, explains that women are more susceptible to cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) due to hormonal changes. Especially if they take hormonal or contraceptive pills, or have recently had an abortion or delivery. In children and newborns, dehydration and ear infections can also lead to CVT. Other causes include head injuries, obesity, cancer, and certain blood disorders like polycythemia vera. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial for early detection and treatment of this serious condition.
Risk Factors For Cerebral Venous Thrombosis In Pregnant Women
As per a study, pregnant women are at a higher risk for blood clots due to several physiological and lifestyle factors. During pregnancy, hormonal changes increase the blood's tendency to clot, which helps reduce blood loss during labour. Additionally, the growing uterus exerts pressure on pelvic veins, slowing blood flow from the legs and increasing the likelihood of clot formation.
Other risk factors include advanced maternal age, obesity, previous history of blood clots, prolonged immobility (such as bed rest), and certain medical conditions like diabetes or preeclampsia.
ALSO READ: Amber Heard Pregnant at 38, How Ageing Affects Fertility and Pregnancy
What Is The Treatment Of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis?
Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) requires a careful and systematic approach to treatment. Here are the key steps involved:
- Assessment of Severity: Doctors evaluate the severity of the condition to determine the appropriate course of action.
- Medication: Initial treatment typically involves anticoagulants to prevent further clot formation and to thin the blood.
- Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of brain activity is conducted using venograms and imaging tests to detect any new clots.
- Surgical Intervention: In some cases, a thrombectomy may be performed to remove existing clots and repair affected blood vessels.
Just like Gal Gadot advised to look for health during pregnancy, one must emphasise on a healthy lifestyle. However, it is always advised to consult a gynaecologist if facing any issues in the pregnancy.