Hi all,
I am currently mixed feeding my nine-month old DD. I'm hoping/ trying to wean her off the breast gradually so that I can stop when she is one. She is very much in the 'feed to sleep' mode.
She has about two formula feeds a day now (before morning nap and bed) instead of boob and sleeps better on the formula generally. However she usually still needs to suckle on the breast for a short time to fall asleep because its a deeply engrained sleep association for her.
I'd like to find a new way for her to settle, and I've failed miserably at controlled crying and pickup / put down (absolutely not into her crying it out). I always gave, and it feels like it goes against my instincts, personally.
Based on this, I was happy to just go with the feeding to sleep until she started biting persistently on my nipples when teething. And lately she's been less interested in the breast, but still unable to fall asleep on her own, even from rocking. She has never fallen asleep on her own in the cot, drowsy but awake. So bedtimes have been a bit stressful for her.
I'm sure I've made all the first time parent mistakes of bad sleep associations etc, but there we are. I am wondering if anyone has had similar experiences, finding themselves in this middle ground/ stalemate type situation. A friend has said to me that the breastfeeding just petered out, and gradually cuddles replaced feeds. Anyone else have this happen?
Also she won't even take a bottle from my partner, who is eager to get involved in the settling before bed, but she won't have it!
Sorry this is a marathon post. Not looking for judgement or lecturing (as has sadly been my experience on here sometimes), just anyone who relates or could share any tips. Thank u!