Viral TikTok of clogged milk duct reminds us breastfeeding mamas are champs

Even if you’ve had mastitis before, you may still need to lie down after watching this video.

There are so many aspects of breastfeeding that no one can truly prepare you for—engorgement, being a 24/7 diner, actually wanting to wear a bra to sleep—but clogged milk ducts might just top that list.

This new viral TikTok is the perfect demonstration that breastfeeding is hard work, yes, but it can lead to mastitis. Which can lead to…this.

Warning: this video is not for the faint of heart. I breastfed both of my children, I had mastitis twice, and I still wasn’t OK after watching this! LOL.

TikTok user @tylermarieoates shared a video of the actual clog that was stuck in her milk ducts. But this isn’t just any clog—this one led to sepsis. “In case your significant other doesn’t believe you that a clogged duct hurts, show them this,” she captioned the video.

She says she went septic from mastitis and passed multiple clots.

Mastitis is a painful inflammation of the breast tissue, often accompanied by infection. Mastitis is usually caused by a blocked duct or by bacteria getting into the breast (often via cracked nipples). Blocked ducts occur for a number of reasons, like going too long in between feedings or experiencing an incorrect latch. It’s pretty common among parents who breastfeed, though sepsis is a rare and very serious complication.

In rare cases, untreated mastitis may cause sepsis. Sepsis is the body’s extreme reaction to infection, and it can result in organ failure and even death. Sepsis is nothing to take lightly in any way, and it’s a relief to see that this mama is now OK.

Now, back to that clog. HOLY MOLY, AMIRIGHT? She followed up with another video showing another clog that was removed during this incident.

Is it just me, or is anyone else feeling phantom twinges in their boobs? Whew. What a reminder that breastfeeding mamas are total champs, huh?

More From Motherly:

• Common Breastfeeding Problems – Motherly ›
• How To Get Rid of Clogs With Haakaa – Motherly ›

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• Clogged milk duct: Symptoms, home remedies, and prevention ›
• Clogged Milk Duct: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, and More ›