My Favorite Insulin Pump Infusion Set Sites | She's Diabetic
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- čas přidán 11. 07. 2024
- My favorite Insulin Pump Infusion Set Sites! ◉ Subscribe: goo.gl/ZfjYfu
Does anyone else find that a bad infusion set site placement can really cramp their style? I do! I've been on an insulin pump for almost 3 years* (hard to believe!) and I've tried a bunch of different infusion set sites - some work so much better than others (at least that's what I've experienced - we're all different)! So I decided to make this video featuring my three favorite sites and the reasons why I love them. I hope you guys find this useful and informative, and most of all are enjoying a wonderful start to the New Year!
*At the time of recording this video I'm on the TSlim x2 Insulin Pump.
For ease of navigation, the timestamps of each location are listed below:
2:25 ARM
6:20 THIGH/LEG
10:15 LOWER BACK
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Hi Andrea, thank you for inspiring me to get my blood glucose under control. I have been a diabetic for 25 years, and not really serious about getting better in managing it until i stumbled upon your CZcams channel last November 2020 . My A1C has been between 12-14 range for the last 10 years. After watching some of your videos, i decided to get a Dexcom CGM and Tslim pump to help manage my diabetes. I am excited to share my lab result i received today, my A1C is at 7.9!!! Isn't that amazing? I am so looking forward to maintain or better this result. Thank you
Liza...OH MY GOODNESS THAT IS INCREDIBLE!!!! YOU SHOULD BE SO PROUD OF YOURSELF!!! I thank you so so much for your kind words and for watching my channel - but I really truly mean it when I say - you are responsible for this incredible change! Even your initiating the watching of my videos was a step that came from you and I am so so so honored to be a part of your journey, but truly you have made the steps to change your life via these incredible (and never easy!) actions and you should just be so incredibly proud of yourself! I thank you for sharing this with me, truly it means a lot, and I am just SO HAPPY FOR YOU MY DIABUDDY!!!! YOU ARE AMAZING!!!!! What an INCREDIBLE way to start the New Year!!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! YOU INSPIRE ME!!!! 🥰🌟😍
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you Diabuddy😍 seriously you inspired me.Now that my AIC is low On the 28th I will undergo on a retina surgery . (Proliferative retinopathy ) " consequenses of me not being compliant for 25 years" I will keep you posted.
Great video. I rotate starting with R upper arm, R butt, R abdomen, R thigh. Then repeat the rotation on the left. Then factor in CGM placement and it’s not always exactly in order, but it works for me. As for tubing catching on doorknobs and pulling the site out, I always tape the tubing to my skin about 3-4” from the insertion site so if there’s a snag, it will pull on the taped down section and the insertion site is safeguarded.
Great video! I think we pumpers always need ideas for new sites! I love the lower back. Use the whole waist area a lot! Never tried the first two sites you showed. Honestly, I would be scared to pull it out from inner leg or upper arm. But challenge accepted! I will try it! Nice outfit change between the 3 parts;)
You are so swee- you’ve encouraged me to explore new sites, thank you,
I am not a diabetic, but my daughter was diagnosed the end of March 2020 a month after her 3rd birthday. Its encouraging to watch your videos and see you living a normal happy life. Its a struggle sometimes to remember that she will be able to do so. We are almost a year into this journey and its been rough. Thank you for being transparent and providing information about Type 1 Diabetes.
My son was diagnosed a year ago how are you x
@@kayjordan7310 it's been rough. Lots of self blame even though there was and is nothing I can do to take it away. She has managed well. Takes shots and dexcom changes like a champ.
@@kayjordan7310 how are you doing with all of it?
I'm so sorry to hear of your daughter's recent diagnosis, and your son's diagnosis Kay - oh my goodness what a lot to have going on through 2020 in addition to the pandemic. You both sound like extraordinary parents for coming here and communicating in this way, and please please please know that this will get easier. From a spiritual standpoint I have no idea why t1d happens to some people and not others, and to have it strike your children when they are so young. That's a lot to deal with, there's no denying it. But please know, and I can tell you honestly, I truly believe that type 1 diabetes has made me a better person. Yes, I have health challenges that effect my day to day and require my attention, but it's also made me into a more health conscious, empathetic and generally more grateful for the gift of life. I don't know if this helps you at all, but I wanted to share that with you as you grapple with and potentially struggle with the day to day for yourself and your children. I'm so glad you have a Dexcom - that will become (and probably has already become) your greatest ally and tool in all of this. Please know, you are not alone and the camaraderie and support that you've given to one another here is absolutely inspiring to witness and this will get you FAR! My love and strength to both of you - you guys are an inspiration and should be so proud of yourselves! 🌟🌟
I am so happy I found your channel! I have my insulin pump for over three months now and it has been a bit of a nightmare 😂
Thank you for another great video. :) My son just got his tslim a few days ago, we're really excited!
That is SO EXCITING!!! I hope that all goes well for you guys - for me it's been an absolute game changer!!! Especially with the combination Dexcom G6! Happy for you and your son!!!! 😍
Thankyou for the site suggestions i have been trying to find new ones!!
Yay! You are so welcome!!
This is so informative! Thank you so much! I'll be going on the pump soon and I was so curious on where the heck I'd be putting it/what it would look like with clothes. I came across your channel a week ago and it's calming my mind tremendously about using a pump for the first time!
Oh YAY!! I'm so glad!! I'm sure soon you'll find your own ways of doing things and will have ideas to share with me!! I'm excited for you, and wish you the very very best and most smooth transition over to the pump possible!! 🥰💙
I am a mother with a Type 1 diabetic child living in South Korea. My daughter and I watched your video, and it was helpful in changing the injection site for the insulin pump. Thank you.
Oh thank you so much for sharing this with me, it's my pleasure to help in whatever little ways I can! ❤️
thanks for the info! back on the pump after 5 years and been looking for good infusion set placements and this was very insightful
You're so welcome! I'm so glad this helped in some small way!!
Thank you! This helped me so much!!
Thanks for doing these videos. I've been a diabetic (type 2) since early 1998. I went on inhaled insulin in 2008...then to injectable in 2010. I just went on the pump after a lot of hoops with my endocrinologist. CZcams has been helping on getting use to my T:Slim pump. My A1C has been 6.8 for a few years...with taking a lot of finger sticks and "chasing" my sugars. Having visibility of my blood glucose AND having SmartIQ...is already life-changing in a week. Today will be my first site change and refill of insulin.
I'm athletic and also do ruck marching (e.g. carrying a weighted military ruck sack). So a site not on where I would place a load bearing belt on my waist is key.
Hi Andrea, I'm on my first year using a pump and infusion set. It didn't take me long to realize I need to add more infusion set rotation sites so I took to CZcams for reference... that said I'm very glad I came across yours. I've added the inner thigh to my list of rotation sites, in fact, my first insertion was today. Adding these sites will certainly free up abdomen real-estate (for my Dexcom G6) and to your point; help prevent scare tissue by increasing rotation sites. Thanks for posting your experience.
Hi Andrea,
A happy new year to you and your family. Pray you all stay safe in these difficult times. 🙏❤
Thank you so so so much Rex, gosh you are such wonderful subscriber, and diabuddy. Thank you for your continued kindness and support - and I wish you and yours the very same - lots of safety, health, joy and prosperity for the year ahead! With so much JOY!
Thank you for your video's. They are so helpful!😊
Oh my goodness - you are so welcome. Thank YOU so much for watching and being a subscriber and commenting!!!! ❤️
Thanks so much for your video! I have had T1D since I was 16 months old, and am now 40!! I just started using a pump this year in January because the idea of tubing has freaked me out. 😂 It’s so much better than I expected it to be, but I hate finding new places to put my sites. Recently I tried putting it on my lower back like you showed, and I love it!!! It’s my new favorite spot!! Tonight I’m going to attempt my thigh. Thanks for the ideas and inspiration! 🙂
Hi, I am diabetic for 20 years. And I never met someone like me pregnant. Can you told me your experience? I am so scared about it. My a1c is 7,1 I started with pump on January 2023. I used to leave in Cuba the insulin there is NPH. The old school primitive health care. 😢
Thanks for the tips! I just received my pump today after being T1D for almost 18 years and I’m so excited!
Oh my goodness! How exciting!!!! Let me know how it goes!!! Excited for you my diabuddy!!!
This was very helpful. Hard for me to switch from my favorite sites, but makes a huge difference in how you feel overall.
I hear you!!! I get stuck in a safety zone of a certain site and it's so hard to pry myself away from it - but so worth once I pluck up the courage to do so!!! 😛
Thanks for the inspiration Andrea. I'm just three years using a pump and having watched your video, I used my leg as a site for the first time ever. This is day three and so far so good!
OH FANTASTIC!! This is wonderful news Martin!! I'm so so glad to hear this and thank you for sharing!! YAY!!!
thanks for the info! you're awesome!
You are so welcome!! So very happy to help!!
Happy New Year and thank you so much for this video. It came at the perfect time. I am a long time pumper and I have totally overused my stomach area. I just put a new set in today and I am using my upper thigh for the first time. Thanks for the detail on using the softer area!! It will be interesting for me to see how the absorbtion rate is on the thigh, and it has been getting worse and worse for me on the abdomen. Your video's always seem to come at the right time!!
Oh I'm so glad this came at the right time for you! YAY!!! I totally hear you one overusing one site and needing to make the jump but just, gah! It's hard eh! Good for you for giving the leg site a go - that's not easy! I hope it works really well for you and thank you have a wonderful day and potential discovery of a new site! HORRAY!!! xoxo
Thank you! This gave me the confidence to try the leg for my next set. I'm only a week into using a pump and already feeling like my belly is overcrowded!
OMG, I met you thanks to that devil's violinist movie, where I loved your acting. And investigating through youtube to see more of your actings, I found your channel. Such an amazing channel, I never imagined this would happen. I got to admit i admire you a lot, for everything, your personal being, your acting. I would be so glad if you saw this comment, it's not so different than many here but I make my try. Greetings from Mexico.
Oh thank you so much, I'm so glad you found me and took the time to watch the film! Thank you for all your kind words, truly they mean a lot to me and I'm very very grateful to you!! I hope you're well, safe, happy and healthy in Mexico and I wish you the most wonderful year ahead my friend!!
Thank you so much for this video. My favorite placement is my abdomen, and I had not had the best results with my legs. I had never thought of placing it on my leg where you showed though! That makes so much more sense. I can’t wait to give it a try. I feel like I always learn something new from you. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences and knowledge with us.
Thank you so much Len! And I'm so glad you found the leg info interesting and potentially helpful! YAY!!! It's my absolute pleasure to help and make these videos - truly - I love it! Thank you for your kind words and good luck with the new site placement! I hope it works well for you!! 😍🙏🏻
Absolutely stunning
Thank you for this and all your other videos. Have been Type 2 Diabetic for ~30 years, mostly using oral meds for BS control. Within the last 2 years, I was switched to a regimen of both short and long acting insulins using KwikPen delivery in conjunction with Dexcom G6 for BS reads. Eight months ago, Tandem tSlim x2 with IQ Control became part of my life - what a game/life saver for me! My BS is showing better control (still room for improvement) but much better than me guessing how much insulin to give and when, etc. Your videos are so informative and easy to understand with an ability to watch several times to really digest some of the tips or comments you make during your presentation. I have watched several of your videos and have you as a Favorite Channel and have subscribed to follow past and future videos. My wife and I are 68 years old . She says she still wants me around (haha) but retirement makes for lots of togetherness and she is actively looking for a job - for ME! Thank you again and look forward to watching your next episodes. Have a Great Life!
I'm not the guy to write appreciation comments which shows how sincere I am, but man you are helping me out a lot with these videos. Huge thanks for everything. You are a gem
Awesome video! Thanks. In regards to site 3, I’ll sometimes put the pump on the opposite side of where the infusion site is. I find this a good way to get rid of the slack. Works for me!
Oh that is an EXCELLENT IDEA!! I sometimes do that when I'm sleeping, but not usually in my regular day to day and I have no idea why! I'm actually going to switch my pump over to my other pocket right now! THANK YOU MY FRIEND!!!
I start in tandem tslim x2 tommorow so this is helpful
Hi Andrea! My love handles and abdomen are my favourite places. I tried the arm last summer and found it difficult when changing my clothes. It was more to think about lol. Thanks so much for the video! Lots of love.
More to think about - I hear you on that one!! We're all different and what works for one may not work for another - I love that and find it fascinating in so many ways! Thank you so much for watching and lots of love right back to you!! 🥰
Thank you! I’m new too T1D as I was a Type II. Anyway, just after my 69th birthday my Doctor was trying to understand why in 18 months I went from an A1C of 6 to 9. He had me do some labs and we found out that I was LADA with only 0.7% of pancreas produced insulin. I’m now a T1D and my Endocrinologist is great. I first got rid of my diabetes oral medication and started Basal once a day. Then I got a CGM and started taking Blousing before meals. Long story short I got my pump about 10 days ago and it has been amazing…I don’t have to take 5+ injections daily! Thank you and many others who share their experiences! God bless you!❤
New to pumping and just tried it in my leg because of this video and I AM IN LOVE! I can wear high waisted shorts without worrying about it rubbing against my infusion site. Its easy to put my pump on my waist or in my pocket. Im so happy right now. Game changer.
I get my insulin pump next week …….. insulin pump virgin after being diabetic for 27 years! I’ve finally braved being attached to something to better my quality of life. Safe to say I’m petrified …….. but your videos have eased my worry so much!!!! And this video on location of pump sites has been the most useful by far as I was so clueless to where the hell am I gonna put it!!! Thank you so much xxx
Tested this spot for the first time today!!! Thanks for the inspo on new sites. Now my abdomen and legs can rest for a bit 😊
YAY! I'm so glad you've discovered another spot to rotate in! This is most excellent indeed! Good for you for trying it!!!
Hi Andrea, I start my pump journey tomorrow. I found your videos as I was searching for pump information. Have been T1D for 52 years and have lived through many approaches from urine testing to blood testing to cgm (I have a Dexcom 2 years now). Have online training and setup for my T-slim-X tomorrow. I love your videos. So encouraging and informative. Blessings, Ken
Hey! I'm in the exact same situation right now. Getting my pump tomorrow. T:slim pump too. How'd it go?
Thanks for the video Andrea! I am getting my first pump in a few weeks (type 1 for 18 years now!) and something I’m scared about is inserting infusion sites on parts of my body that have accumulated a lot of scar tissue from daily injections and thus are decently painful, which is the main reason why I’m trying this out. Your videos absolutely have put me more at ease throughout this process, thank you!
OH I'm so pleased!!! And it's my pleasure! I'm also delighted for you to be starting a pump! I know it's all a very personal decision, but I've found it really life changing for me, and I hope the same for you! Either way I'm so glad you found this video helpful and that it's put your mind more at ease - I take that as a HUGE compliment and really think this is one of the most important parts of being a t1d! Big love to you my friend! 💙
Hi Andrea, T1D for 58yrs on pump for 3yrs. I tried my upper buttocks/ back and I love it. Thanks so much.
Oh I'm so pleased you've found this helpful!! YAY!! And also...t1d for 58 YEARS!! YOU ARE AN ABSOLUTE WONDER!!!! You inspire me!!! Thank you for watching!! 🤩
Thanks for the info, I currently still use insulin pens, if I do switch to a pump I’ll be well prepared!👍🏻
You're so welcome! And great point!! 👍🏻💙
Thanks for the video.
I never thought of the use of the arm like that. I have always used the 23" infusion sets and placed them on my abdomen but when I started the use of a CGM a while ago, it was just too overcrowded lol. I mistakenly (in an order) was given a 43" line and I thought, why not try the upper leg area. It is amazing. I don't use the inner part of the thigh as it feels very irritated but I do insert on the upper part, just to the right or left of the femur (thigh bone).
The numbers are very accurate and it keeps my abdomen more free for the CGM.
Thanks again for your help.
Your videos are very good and do make a difference.
Take Care
Oh I'm so glad to hear you used the leg site and it works so well for you!!! YAY!! I LOVE my leg sites - and I always order a variety of tubing lengths so that I can be sure to reach to all my different areas (longer for legs and arms, shorter for torso) - it's really made a huge difference to me!! Thank you for watching and for your support my diabuddy!!
You’re kind of hero, I’m diabetic since 19 years and I always try to hide my pump and needle(people are so stupid to understand how your life could be much easier with that),but now I’m trying to push myself and show it out.
You’re speaking about that in a fantastic way, I really estimate you.
And anyway great tips about the legs, I’m going to try it now and see how it goes.
Thanks.
Oh Francesco - thank you oh so much! I'm no hero - just a gal with type 1 diabetes - but your kindness is wonderful for the ego 😂🙏🏻. I think you're willingness to show your pump more - and living with this condition is heroic in and of itself!! GOOD FOR YOU!!!! Let me know how the leg site goes for you!! I wish you such wonderful things my friend!!! 💙💙💙
thanks for the great video, one trick I use to keep the tube in check is to loop it through the belt loop of the jeans. it is very effective if you have the site on one side of your body, and the pump on the pocket of the other side of your body.
Type 1 diabetic for 24 yrs was on the pump for 7 years than decided to take daily injection due to the scar tissues I had on my stomach, I just decided that I wanted to go back on the pump and this video is a great help with the infusion sites you was showing us.
Oh I'm so glad this may be able to help you! I find rotating my sites quite difficult to be disciplined enough to do - I get these fav ones and just stick with it! I need to take my own advice and rotate rotate rotate!!! 💙
Hi Andrea. I’ve been a Type 1 Diabetic for over 42 years now. I currently use the Omnipod system with a Libre CGM. I am contemplating the Dexcom G6. I randomly stumbled onto your CZcams channel and just wanted to say thanks. I am findings your videos very informative and helpful. Keep it up.
Thank you so much Rich, for watching, and welcome to the family here! I'm so glad you've found me! I have several videos about the Dexcom G6 on my channel and can say - I'm a big fan! Though you've probably already figured that one out! If you can and it's within your reach I'd say go for it! It's an excellent excellent system - the best on the market in my opinion! All the very best for you and again - welcome to the channel and the family here! 💙🙏🏻
@@ShesDiabetic Thanks Andrea. I am working with insurance now to try and get the Dexcom 6 CGM. My endocrinologist says it is the better choice since it provides readings every 5 minutes. Fingers crossed. Be well.
Thanks for the info Andrea! I will be starting on a T-slim pump in the very near future. Currently using Omni Pod for the past 3-4 yes. Nothing but injections before then since 1984.
Oh - I'm excited for you Rex!! I love love loveeeeeee my TSlim and think it's an absolutely excellent choice for a pump!! Let me know how it goes!!! 🤩
@@ShesDiabetic Absolutely!!
Thank you for making this video I used it for reference to placing my Omnipod in that love handle upper buttox area for the first time because putting it there scared me but not anymore! 🥰🥳
Oh you are so welcome!!! What an honor to accompany you on this new site venture!!! You go girl!! Good for you for trying a new site!!!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
This is so informative, thank you. We are still deciding on a pump for our son. But he is also very newly diagnosed, and he is only 2 and a pump I feel would be too big for him. We are thinking for his 1year anniversary.
Thank you so much again ❤
Edit: we use the bum just below the waistband for his Iport cause he has no fat anywhere else lol and dexcom takes over his arms. But the inner thigh for his decom might be a good way to give his arms a rest?
Thank you. This video was very helpful.
You’re so very welcome!!!
Great video! I literally started the t:slim today and i can already tell its a game changer. Im still nervous about it all but good info on the different sites you use. Im gonna have to try a bunch of different sites, I always worry about developing scar tissue.
Oh congratulations on your new Tslim!! It's so personal but I think you've made an EXCELLENT choice and I'm happy to hear that you're already loving it!! I rotate my sites and have yet to have any problem with scar tissue but I totally understand - it's a consideration! 💙💙💙
Very informative, I’m also going to use this opportunity to recommend Dr IGUDIA on CZcams who cured my type 2 Diabetes with his natural herbs medication
@@ShesDiabetic Yea definitely a good choice, I have so much to learn, I saw your video on when you first started the pump, I am literally experiencing the EXACT same thing!
Thank you!
Thank you for sharing. I used the lower bottom of my belly. I have just inserted my infusion in my thigh for the first time. I have my Dexcom G7 on the other thigh.
Good point about leg blood flow. I may try that in the future.
I hope it helps! Thank you for watching!!! 💙
thank you ! I recently just started insulin pump. I was searching for a new spot to put in and your video is a great help!!
Oh I hope it's going well!!! Thank you so much for watching and commenting!!! I'm so happy to hear it's helping you!!!
Great video! Sites I never thought about for my infusion. Always was told to use my stomach. After using a Medtronic pump Ifor 20 years, I just switched to the Tandem with the Control IQ. Using the Autoset 90 with it. Getting used to a new set is so hard! Took me over 30 minutes to change the first time I did it by myself.Thanks for this video.
Oh my gosh - I hear you on the new infusion sets!!! I had the exact same situation when going from Medtronic to Tandem! I have to say I have been able to do it more quickly of late - but it's taken me a while to get out of the Medtronic rhythm and into the Tandem one! 💙
@@ShesDiabetic Nice to know I'm not the only one having trouble!
Thank you for your time and effort in making this video. I have had type 1 diabetes since 1985. I used shots for my insulin delivery until 2007 but am now on a pump and CGM. The addition of a CGM makes my blood sugar control very good. I have very few low blood sugar events whereas with shots I had low blood sugar events at least twice a month. My A1C has never been above 6.0 and mostly I have an A1C of 5.7 or lower. Your video helped me with alternative spots on my body to attach my infusion sets. Lately, however, I have had some blockages in the sites I use for my infusion sets. I have reversed some of these blockages by using my thumb and forefinger to massage the infusion set locations. I have used the area on each side of my navel and have had great results with my infusion set success. I also use the area on my hips to attach my infusion sets and this area also has responded to my massaging the area to reduce infusion set blockages. I still have to repeat the placement of the infusion set due to scar tissue buildup but as I continue to massage the infusion sites my success has increased, and the infusion blockages have stopped occurring as often as they used to. So, the point of all this is to encourage pump users to massage daily the older infusion set sites. It will be a while before the sites are unblocked but I believe my success is positive affirmation that this will work to reduce future infusion set blockages. Any comments you have about this comment will be appreciated and I look forward to future episodes.
Very helpful! I've been rotating the same sites (belly, hips) and noticed reduced absorption so looking for new ideas and these are all sites I haven't tried before. Thanks!
You're so welcome Beth! Thank you for watching!!
Late onset type 1, having ran with pens for 16 years I just decided to jump the bandwagon and get a pump. I always felt it would be a hassle to be connected to a machine via the tubes, but since technology have come a long way it had started to feel pretty ok to "endure" being stuck to the pump.
Not that I really have needed a pump from tha A1C perspective, but the control IQ functions of the t:slim will help quite a bit I think to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and probably help me sleep better not being awaken from the beeping 😬
Since I am about to start up this was a very interesting videos challenging my preconceived views of where to put the infusion set.
Thanks!
i really love your #3 site for sites and for my enlite sensors! i found that it's the only place on my body where sensors don't bleed at all and give me good readings. for infusion sets i rotate between front parts of my thighs (quite painful sometimes with sure-t) and the sides of my waist. will definitely try your sites 1 and 2 :)
also thank you for your videos. it's always very soothing to watch you speak, i feel like everything is going to be ok
Oh thank you so so much for your kind words - and I'm so glad you've discovered some new options for your site placement! YAY! Truly thank you for watching and sharing this with mean - it means more than you know - and to be called soothing is just SUCH a compliment to me! I can't tell you how much that means!! Wishing you a wonderful day my friend!!
I wanna say thank you.. i’ve had one of the worst nights with my sites.. all of them are blocked and I stupidly ripped my old one. The inner thigh was never on my mind so i thought i’d try that. thank you again for adding one more option to my rotation!
Oh my gosh I'm so so sorry to hear about your terrible night!!! I promise we have all been there - please please please don't be hard on yourself - you're doing the best you can - and believe me, it's BEYOND my pleasure to help you in offering a new site!! This is hard and I'm proud of you for fighting through and finding another way!!! Big Big love to you and wishing you a restful and restorative day (and following days!) after such a rough night!
Awesome video, I've been a type 1 for 27 years now. I've been trying to change my sites more often. Checking your video out it's helping me alot to get more ideas to change the area that I use. The problem with me is that I don't have much body fat. I've noticed that you don't either. Sometimes it hurts depending on the area I use. Thanks for your time. Also I want to add that you're very pretty woman. Take care 😎
When I started on my first pump I was told to only use my abdomen and not to use other areas but I think advice has changed now, it took me a long time to move away from there and now I mainly use my thighs. I have quite chunky thighs so plenty of space there 😂 I'm quite keen to have a go using my arms but I have a libre and I'm not sure about how far apart they may need to go, I will see if I can find out so I can give my arms a go. Thanks for sharing your favourite sites, it's always useful to see what other people do 🙂
So I put it on my arm but I think my tubing is too short since I like to clip my pump on my waistband, it feels like it's pulling when I move my arm 😬 I have 60cm tubing and I just ordered 3 months-worth of consumables so next time I'll order some 80cm tubing sets, hopefully I'll remember!
Good for your for trying the arm!! But oh - I'm so sorry about the short tubing! I don't know about you but that feeling of pulling drives me wild - I don't like it at all! At least you've had a go at it and can order longer tubing next time! With regards to how far apart the Libre and pump site should be - I find as long as the site and Libre aren't right next to each other - you're good to go!!! Good luck my diabuddy and thank you for sharing your experience here!! 💙💙💙
@@ShesDiabetic Thanks Andrea! I have my pump clipped on my bra for now and that's better than on my waistband but not my favourite place to put my pump! I kept forgetting to find out about libre and pump site placement so thank you for sharing that, it's so helpful!! I went for the other arm this time but it's good to know when I get my longer tubing I can put both on the same arm 😊
Thanks for the video! Its my type 1 diabetes anniversary today, and I have had it for 1 year. I am hoping to go on a pump in a few days, so this video has been really helpful! XX
Happy diaversary! Would you please share your pump journey? I really want to go on the pump but terrified since I have been on injections for 20+ years now. It would really help seeing how you get on with a pump 🙏🏻
@@lolaeddaloo3a Hi there! I am due to go on a omnipod pump, and have got a pretty bad case of the nerves 😅 but I am also very excited. I have been on Pens but it really is a pain! I am also on the libre, because I really don't want a cgm. Will update when I get the pump 🙂 xx
@@caitlynheyes374 Thank you 🙏🏻 and good luck on your pump journey! ☺️
@@lolaeddaloo3a Thanks!! 😁
Loved you in Homeland!
Thank you friend! :)
Hi Andrea, I have been on a pump for 7 years, always used my stomach and sides for the infusion set, I started to use the outside top of my legs a few months ago to give my stomach a break, has been ok. I use the back of my arms for Dexcom, never tried an infusion set there. Always good to get suggestions for new sites 😃 thank you
You are so welcome! I'm so glad to hear this may have given you some new ideas! I'm with you - I always go for the same ones - and actually my Dexcom is what inspired me to do an arm site!! Great minds!! 😍
I have always used my abdomen for 16 years pumping (23 years MDI before that). Right now I use the left side for my infusion sites and right side for the CGM. After watching your video, I'm thinking of trying out new site locations. The lower back by the hips seems like a good idea. Thanks!
You're so welcome! I hope you find the switch up of sites to work well for you!!!
Thank you for sharing new sites for inserting the infusion set. For the first time tonight I have inserted the infusion set on my upper buttock. I will share my experience in few days.
Thank you Andrea! I’m a belly girl myself but thanks to your video my neglected backside will now get a chance to prove it’s worthy. If I can pull it off, logistically. ☺️
Ah! Excellent Lisa!! I've never had good luck with my belly personally, which is why you don't see it featured here - but hey! Doesn't that just go to show how different we all are! Good luck with the new site! I hope it proves worthy, and logistically possible too - hehe!! 😄
How do you disconnect for a shower?
I've been a diabetic for 9 years now, just installed my first pump about an hour ago and hoping this will help my sugars! It's a super confusing process but this helps a lot!
Congratulations! You’re going to love it! I had to go back to syringe based delivery recently for a couple of weeks and I missed my pump so much! It can be inconvenient at night time but I have workarounds for that.
I get my pump on Wednesday. Thank you
Oh I'm excited for you!! I hope it's all going well!!! ❤️
This is a fantastic video. I’m getting ready to go on vacation to stay with friends at a beautiful ocean side cabin. I worked hard during the pandemic to build up a great looking body and I don’t want infusion set or CGM sensor showing. After vacation I will go back to using my stomach and arm for infusion set and sensor.
Something I’ve been doing for almost 10 years could be valuable to your followers. I cut a small hole in the upper section of my front pocket of my pants. It’s high enough so nothing will fall through the whole like coins etc. When I first started doing this I sewed around the hole so that it didn’t open up, I found this wasn’t necessary. The holes don’t open up because there’s no tension on them. I can thread the infusion set connector through the hole so that it connects to my body and the pump simply sits in my front pocket. There’s no cord to catch on anything and it’s not visible at all!
I realize that some people will not want to cut their pants, but it’s just the lining of the pocket and this has never been a problem for me.
Thank you again for a great video.
I’m 10 and I just got my insulin pump this is very useful
Fantastic!! I'm excited for you my friend!!
Good morning Andrea!
I just found your site and have subscribed....thanks, for all you are doing!!
Question: in watching your "favorite infusion sites", you said the back of your arm is great....do you feel gravity pulling against the adhesive??
Oh thank you for subscribing! And welcome to the family! 🥰 I've never had any problems with gravity pulling down the site on my arm - it's one of my favorites!!
Nice job
Thank you! Cheers!🥂
Andrea, as always you are such a delight to listen to. You are always a joy and so very informative with your posts. I thank you for doing such a great job for all of us who are living with Type 1 Diabetes. I am just now getting used to my new Tandem w/Control IQ which I started the day after Christmas 🎄. My issues have been my cannulas at the insertion sites. I have only had a few since it has only been a few weeks, but three of my cannulas have been kinked. So I wonder if this has happened to you or anyone else perhaps? If so, how long do you allow yourself before simply replacing it? I do understand that the pump takes awhile to get used to each of us and our algorithms, carb intake, basal rates, etc. However last night I changed my site at 5 pm and by 9 pm my sugars had raised to 436 (Thus my doctors tell me I am brittle diabetic. I tell them, I prefer the word sensitive 😊) That is when I removed my insertion site only to see my cannula completely kinked at the top. It looked more like a straw that had been bent over. I am now using the AutoSoft XC, but have heard great things about the AutoSoft 90. My question to you and your many followers, what insertion set are you using and what advice do you have for a newbie on the Tandem t:Slim with Control IQ? Sending ☮️ n ❤️ to all and may 2021 treat you gently and with kindness while staying strong, and healthy!!
For me the AutoSoft 90 works best. I used to kink at first, but found that was mostly because of hesitation on my part using it. That and a couple of times I forgot to remove the protector from the needle (my bad). Plop it on, press lightly against your skin all the way around, and squeeze. After a while doing this you won't even feel it. Control IQ does well at small adjustments to meet immediate needs, but you might want to talk to your doctor about setting the correct bolus ratio and your basal rate. I've had to adjust mine over time, and thank god for my CGM to help me do that.
@@scottyanke655 Thanks for taking the time to let me know how well you are liking the AutoSoft 90. I let my trainer know that I would like to give it a try. So I am due to get some samples soon. In the meantime, thanks again for your insights. May your year be well balanced in all areas, and may you stay strong and healthy!!
My favorite is on the outside of the legs about 2 inches or more below the pant line . Thanks for the vid I'll keep your suggestions in mind. I agree with the others also when it comes to your looks , you certainly are very beautiful 😻😽😸
That's an awesome site suggestion - thank you so much for sharing!! And thank you for your kind words!!
Have you considered doing a video about what made you choose the T-slim pump? I know there will be more people like me who would be interested into what went into you decision.
Hi Christine!! That's an excellent idea - and in fact I'm working on a review video right this moment! That's where I'll discuss my pros and cons and I think it will be very helpful in explaining why I chose to go with that one! I hope to have it up in the next couple weeks!! Happy New Year my friend and I hope you're very well! 💙XOXO💙
Pumps can go anywhere you have some padding (fat). If you can pinch an inch it is a viable site. I use my arms legs lower back abdominal and upper chest near arm pit and collarbone. I talked to my endocrinologist and she told me I can also use forearms and calf. Pretty much any site is front and back. To date I haven’t run into an issue with placement except when it is bound to be laid on or rubbed with clothing. In those I tend to get bruised experience discomfort and/or lifting of device. My favorites are back of arm upper thighs inside or outside and side of waist a bit to the front and above waist line for sure. Don’t be afraid to show your device off. Be proud because you are actively taking charge and care of your diabetes for yourself your family and your friends. The better the numbers the better the outcome and fewer complications. Good luck and listen to your Endo much more. If I had 10-20 yrs ago I might not have the neuropathy and kidney issues so bad. I plan to keep my feet and toes. My huge wake up was loss of feeling in my big toes and kidney damage . Your extremities and organs are most vulnerable to uncontrolled sugars. If you can embrace your devices you can have great success of slowing disease progression considerably
I just started using a pump in October and I feel like I've been abusing my tummy/abdomen area, so I should definitely give these spots a try. 😂
You mentioned some sites having better absorption than others. As someone who uses Tandem Control IQ, I was wondering if you change your pump settings depending on the site.
Oh a new pumper 😍! I hope you're enjoying it and it's all working well for you Lora, and I'm glad this might have given you some more site ideas! It took me a while to get myself to change my site area because quite frankly I was scared too (just me being silly I guess!) I don't actually go so far as to change my pump settings, as like you, I use the Tandem IQ system, but I do keep it in mind with my mealtime bolus, maybe taking a little less or more with meals according to my sites' absorption rates, but a lot of it is a little bit of a guessing game of course! Big love and joy to you my fellow Diabuddy and thank you for watching! 💙
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you for the advice!! The idea of trying something new's definitely scary. I don't like experimenting with something as important as my health, but I know I'll have to do it eventually, so this makes me feel better about it. 😂
I bought some medical tape for my kiddo... I'm anticipating a couple ripped out sites! I'm hoping between spibelt and tape it's prevented. Can you do a post on your favorite accessories? If you haven't already!
I am considering the T-slim, up until now with other pumps I have worn my pump in a bra pouch where the tubing slots down through a hole in the pouch. That leaves me free to move around without noticing the pump. I'm hoping that if i do upgrade to the tandem that that will still be possible. Sites I use are mainly upper ab/lower ab/thighs, although I have started to put my freestyle libre sesnsor on the front of my thigh lately, when I was trialling an onmipod dash
Thanks for this! I also like the back of my arm best..I'm on omnipod..I also use lower back but find slightly more to the side works better for workouts/ yoga ..So sort of more love handle area..And I wish I could use my leg as I like how it's out the way but absorption for me on the outer thigh isn't great but I may try more inner thigh after this!
Those all sound really excellent Courtney! :) I know it's a bit different with the Omnipod and especially when you're working out and all that! Gosh life with diabetes is complex, eh! Maybe the inner thigh will work for you! Fingers crossed!! Big love and joy to you my diabuddy!! 💙💙💙
Hello Courtney I am also on thr omnipod. I have wanted to try the lower back/love handle area but im a back sleeper what are your thoughts on laying down with it on that area?
@@ambeatch Hi Aaron..I find it's easier if it's more on the side as opposed to the back..for most of the day it works better for me. Nighttime changing sides in bed is a bit akward as I need to be careful so generally just stick more with the side that doesn't have the omnipod on..but I mostly also prefer sleeping on my side or front. If you prefer sleeping on your back may be ok but I would still sort of do it lower down in the slight arch so there is not much pressure on it..
Great video!! I just received my autosoft 90 sets so I can start using arms and legs (abdomen is giving me issues). Any suggestions for how you placed your site on the lower back/upper rear? I have some range of motion issues and am interested in trying that as a site but am nervous I won't be able to disengage the inserter.
my favorite sites i use are my legs and the side of my lower back (like the one you showed!) i haven't tried the arm yet but might give it a try :) i really hate putting it on my stomach because everytime i bend down or sit down etc, i feel like it might rip off (although thankfully that never happenend haha) it just feels wrong somehow lol
Ah! We're practically the same!! I feel the same way about stomach! For some reason it just doesn't work very well for me - plus I often got kinked cannulas there so I just kind of stopped using it altogether!
Hi Andrea, Love your videos, very amusing and comforting. I noticed your silver clip on your tandem. Please tell me where I can get one. My clip is over-expanded and constantly pops out. Its driving me crazy. Thanks, Tony in Harrisburg, PA
Thank you Tony! The clip is called hip clip, and here’s the Amazon link!! I love mine so much!!
www.amazon.com/Nite-Ize-HipClip-Lightweight-Stainless/dp/B01N7VLDUE/ref=mp_s_a_1_10?crid=34QSWCIF38U3M&keywords=stick+on+clip&qid=1645989203&sprefix=stick+on+clip%2Caps%2C125&sr=8-10
@@ShesDiabetic Great, thank you for your support. Keep up the good work of informing the community.
Hi Andrea! Love the videos. So helpful. I’ve been type 1 since September so I’m really new. Have you tried angled sets like the auto soft 30? What do you think? I’m thin with not much subcutaneous tissue so I’m wondering if the angled insertion would be better.
Hi Denis! Welcome to the crazy world of diabetes, eh! My goodness - please know you are not alone and this will get easier, and in the meantime - I'm here for you! We all are! I've never used another infusion set (I'm on the Autosoft 90) but I'm always looking to insert places where I have a little more 'something something' - though I do know some people find the steel needle sites quite helpful (as opposed to the plastic cannula) - I hope the helps!!!
Hi Andrea. Thanks for the reply. Something you said helped me and I thought you’d like to know. It made so much sense but when you said the bit about putting your infusion set in a spot where one has a little more sub-Q tissue, “something something” lol, I moved my infusion set above my knee by about 5”, kind of medially. I have a little “soft bit” there and the absorption is great. Plus I love the infusion set away from the abdomen. Upper leg is good too but it gets in the way a bit more as you can imagine.
Also, I’ve made the chia seed pudding twice already! Love it!!! So easy and yummy.
So thanks. Much appreciated!
Denis
@@eastonguy62 oh my gosh that’s so wonderful to hear! I’m delighted to hear this Denis!!! And so glad you like the chia pudding too!!! Win win win!!! Happy for you my diabuddy! Thank you so much for sharing this with me! 😍
Thanks for the great info. You mentioned the changes in absorption depending on location but does the pump automatically adjust infusion rate if you are using tandem with control IQ? Also is it practical to change tube length depending on location?
I recently got Control IQ, and am amazed at how well it works. My overnights have improved dramatically. Since starting Control IQ I've never been above 120 in the morning, and don't have overnight lows anymore.
I use my abdomen and sides of my waist. Interesting that I was told when first starting that the abdomen is preferred because the absorption rate would be more consistent there than, as you noted, when wearing on you thigh. Question I have is how you can apply the infusion set to an area where one cannot use both hands? Enjoying your channel.
Thank you so much for you kind words! I have the auto soft inserter that I can actually use one handed so that's how I achieve the insertion with one hand. Actually it's the only one I've ever used so I don't have experience with anything else, but I really appreciate your question - because I never would have thought of this!
Using the back of my arm for the first time after watching this. I prefer short 30cm tubing so the pump is clipped to my t-shirt (no bra strap available! :-) ).
The absorption seems really good, but then this is the first time I'm not using my thighs in a long time.
Fantastic! I'm so glad to hear you're trying it out and finding it useful! This is wonderful news! It's never easy to change sites so that in and of itself is a really awesome achievement (at least in my opinion!) Also - I hear you on the sorter tubing! Sometimes I like the length because it just gives me more to play with and no restriction, but often times it's just a lot of tubing hanging off of me and that feels rather unexcellent! Also - sorry you don't have a bra to connect to - I guess we can't have it all 😂😂😂
Ive been rotating around my abdomen and been feeling stressed about a new site. I was hoping this vid would give me the courage to use a new spot but I ended up just putting it back in my stomach. Maybe next time!
Interesting sites and like her energy. I have found the upper stomach a few inches below your pecks/breast area absorbs well as an alternate site. For people with more body fat such as I i try to find areas with least amount of fat like arms and legs to help with insulin absorption
On the lower back placement try running the tubing thru a belt loop.
Oh WHAT A GREAT IDEA!!!! I LOVE IT!!! Thank you for sharing- I’m going to try this next time!!
Hi Andrea, for two weeks I have my Minimed 780G insuline-pump with Guardian 4 CGM sensor. A whole new life in terms of healthy low glucose. Your'e fusion sites are all new to me. Hope it will work for me to, for I already have lost several sets. I have a question to ask; do you use the standard tubes ore the longer ones? They are more practical, I think. And when you are in bed where do you keep the pump? I mijzelf hold the pump in my hand, so it always turns around with me. But I ques there are better options.
Thank you for all your'e helpful video's. Greetz from the Netherlands, Corné
Cut a small hole in your pocket and treat the edges with super glue and route the tubing thru the hole. All the sites are good!
OH WOW! This is a fantastic tip!! Thank you for sharing this with us here!!! Covert insulin pump tubing placement - I love it!!!
Hello, I definitely over use my stomach do you use any sticky swabs for it to stick to you more on arm or leg? I will be going to a theme park next week and wondering about that? I know sweat and water wear and tear adhesive! Thanks so much for sharing!
OH yeah, the leg. Best site ever!
When you find that great site it’s such a good feeling!!!! 😍😍😍
Hi Andrea, I am a new pump user and found this so helpful! Could you talk about where you put it when you sleep? I tend to toss and turn so I worry about it being ripped out during the night
Oh I'm so glad you found this useful Jackie! YAY! In terms of when I sleep, I usually have it clipped to the waistband of my pajama bottoms. I've also tried just letting it lose in bed with me but I find that can be annoying and a little tangle-creating! I specifically buy PJ bottoms with a strong enough waistband to provide me a place to clip it! I hope this helps! It makes me wonder if I should make a video talking about this! Sending you joy my fellow diabuddy!
Hi Jackie, I use a Multi band with a pocket that I got online from a company called Hid-in. It works very well at night and sometimes I use it when I'm working in the yard when I'm afraid that the pump on my belt might get bumped
My dining room table is lethal to stomach sites. But, I also run into walls and pull Dex off all the time, so an arm site probably wouldn't work. I've kind of learned to suck it in when getting up from the table.
Is worth it to go from the pen to the pump. My doctor is not strongly recommending it for me as I have “decent enough” control.
Also thank you for these videos - been a huge help
I think it's 100% a personal decision. Just because you have good control on pens doesn't mean a pump would be a bad decision for you. I made this video about my honest truth of switching to an insulin pump and you may find it useful! Truly it's been a game changer for me personally, and significantly improved my life, but that's just me, and we're all unique! I would just do some more research and listen to your own instincts, thats' the best I can say! I hope this helps you! This is the video I made documenting my switch and what it was like and has been like since. With joy my friend!!!
czcams.com/video/wVr89eDEKqc/video.html
Thank you for the video. I started pumping (type II) in my late 50s. Wearing the pump on the waistband resulted in broken clips, ripped out infusion sites and all manner of problems. About three years ago I moved the pump into a pocket T-shirt with a small hole cut just above the pocket. I've always run the tubing to my abdomen without problem the arm and the leg are not sites I've tried. To be honest I'm concerned with flexibility in being able to reach those sites (I'm not in my late 60s). Any secrets for actually getting it inserted into the back of the arm? (FWIW I don't use the arm for my CGM either for the same reason.)
i love to but my dexcom g6 sites on my calf! and my insulin sites in my arms :)
Oh very interesting and fantastic! Thank you so much for sharing!!