I can completely relate to your situation!! I've been in the same boat and that 5 months down the line. It's only now that Oscar is feedling a little less.
I was struggling with the constant feeding - before I knew it, he had 2 bottom teeth shortly after 3 months. He is now cutting his top two teeth. This has made that he want to suck - probably to sooth the itch and pain. Calpol and other things helped very little - best was TEETHA powders.
It could be that your little one is teething and needing the soothing too.
I was at the end of my tether too. Close to considering the odd formula. I didn't like the idea and anyway, Oscar didn't take to bottle or dummy. I lived in hope that things would change, as I wasn't just feeding constantly during the day, but also night. As I said, he has settle a bit during the day, but the night time feasting continues!
I am passed getting stressed about it. Read a reassuring bit on fact that babies often feed like that so find soothing, security and they see it as a place of safety - not just food! Made me feel so much better. I have accepted the situation and will treasure it as I will not get the chance again.
My advice would be to take your baby out for a walk between feeds or use a sling. My sling was my lifesaver and dispite being a bit awkward - it helped me to clean up a bit and prepare meals.
I can only reassure you that it will get easier. We often don't see it at the time, but before you know it, the phase have passed.
Oscar have gone from feeding hourly to 2.5 hourly. He's getting so much better and with all the cheeky smiles - I've come to terms with having as good as "NO" sleep!
Persevere with it. They don't do it out of bad habit, but maybe, your little one is just needing that wee bit more reassurance and security.
I'm here if you want to chat - I hope things settle for you! You've done really well bf - the hardest part is passed!!
Emilia xx
