I feel like a human paci :(

[LyndaManus]

In the last couple of days, DS has started acting very odd at feedings (odd for him anyway). He is normally a very dilligent eater and always finishes meals in about 20 minutes. 

I can tell he is still finishing the meal quick, BUT then he stays latched on sucking very softly.  I can tell he is not getting much if anything.  It is like he is using me as a soother.  I have been back at work for over a month now, but could this be a prolonged reaction to missing the daytime feedings with me?  He screams if I try to break the suction.  I have tried switching over to the paci and holding him tight but he still gets upset so I give in.  I started him using the paci as a newborn only to get to sleep because of his great need to suckle, but he never has it during awake time.  Now, he doesn't want it at all - he wants me instead.

This wouldn't be as big of a deal except I have another post requesting help on early wakings.  Between getting up at 4:00 am every morning with him and staying up 45 minutes for each feeding, I am not getting any sleep. 

Has anyone else had this issue?

[rosie and joe's mummy]

i think you might be right.

any chance of handing him over to DH after he's finished feeding, and giving him the chance to do a cuddle together with the paci?

[LyndaManus]

That's a good idea - he might calm down with someone other than me better - I will try that tonight.

Thank you!

[Carter'sMama]

Hi there!

How old is your lo?  He could be making up for lost time with you but he could also be using you like your subject line says.  I think trying what rosiesmum suggested is a great idea.  See what happens.  Hpefully it will work out for you although then you might miss your cuddle time with ds 

Let us know what happens (and how old your lo is ... that might help determine why he is doing it!)

[LyndaManus]

Well, dh had to work late last night so we didn't get to try it, but after his first feed I spent extra activity time with him (it is normally split between dh and I) and he seemed a lot better the rest of the night.  I feel so bad for him that he is missing me (or at least feeding from me).  Right now I am working long hours but hope that won't be for too much longer.  Hopefully this is just a phase.