Yes, it makes perfect sense
and btw you were rushing to defend yourself about the responding every time she squeaked thing, I think - you don't have to explain that to me, I did the same thing. I think it's good to do that! Except of course they get used to it where another mother might have left them squeaking a bit longer and maybe they would have grown out of it, and....
anyway. I am a squeak rusher, too, so you are amongst friends
I think this terribly difficult phase will pass. I think it will pass reasonably soon. I think it will get better and worse and better and worse and better and worse and eventually, she will sleep through. Personally, I think the more you can give her now, the quicker she will grow out of it, but I do know you are only human etc etc etc
I must say I don't think it is just a habit with all babies. Generally, if it is just a habit, you can change things pretty easily. With some children who are high need as you have described your dd, it is - doh - a need. I think people who are not totally au fait with attachment parenting don't always understand that.
There is that fab quote about needs and habits, do you know the one I mean? Can dig it out if it would help...
Erm. I do think the more you can meet her needs now (without killing yourself doing it) the easier your life will be long term. Unmet needs not going away etc, but needs that are met get grown out of. I usually get crucified for saying things like that - yes I do know how hard it can be. No I don't think it is the only way. No I don't think parents should make themselves martyrs. Yes I did think I was going to go insane sometimes through lack of sleep. But that's my opinion on it, at the moment.
You know her best. Trust your instincts. If you think with a little work, you could make some changes, then do it. If you think she genuinely needs you, and is inconsolable when she doesn't get comfort because she is too young to understand and too needy to cope with it, then you are going to need to find a way to deal with it. How can you get more rest? How can you mentally cope with this? Can you change your priorities temporarily until this phase passes? Does mentally giving in help? Inspiring books? Talking to other people who share the same parenting style? Meditation or relaxation during the day so that at least you feel more rested?
I don't know if any of this is the tiniest bit helpful, but sometimes even a tiny improvement is enough to make things copable with for a bit longer, IME. If I am talking bullshit about it being a need rather than a habit for her, please ignore me btw. That was just what I was picking up on from what you have said about her. I wouldn't criticise you if you tried to change the situation, at all. Just wonder if giving in to it may be more effective in the long term, perhaps.