For the men out there - Are you shaving your abdomen for the infusion set?

Diabetes Technology Insulin Pumps
1

I would like to add some more real estate to my infusion set change pattern and I'm wondering if I should start trimming or shaving my abdomen? I've been using the side mostly because there is very little hair there but I would like to use more space in the middle area.

Or do the infusion sets stay in place on top of average haired men?

Thanks!

2

I shave the areas that I place the infusion set. The infusion set will stay in place if you don't shave. It's removing the infusion set that sucks.

3

Like Brent says, it's not the staying on but the coming off that's the problem. At first I tried using UniSolve adhesive remover swabs, but after a while decided it was less bother just to razor off the site. At first I was worried I was going to look piebald or something, but the hair grows back pretty rapidly (wasn't there a Seinfeld episode about that???)

4

I use my beard trimmer to mow my stomach every 3 weeks when I replace my Dexcom. That is when I trade sides for sites

5

Infusion sets sticking is not the issue for me...it's removing them that sucks! I use a beard trimmer and shave the spot down the morning I am switching sites. Used to worry about the splotchy look but don't care anymore. Ripping the hair out sucked to bad.

6

Thanks everyone. Looks like I'll be doing some manscaping from now on.

7

Well, from a different view… I do not shave my belly, and it doesn’t really bother me at all removing them. I even use skin-tac, IV3000, and flexifix sometimes.

You really have to find what works for you. I’d suggest trying without shaving it first, see if it stays put, and/or doesn’t hurt to remove. At least try before going patchwork style.

I guess I’m just worried I’d start growing a tummy beard.

8

No.

9

Yes...removal is why.
Just trim the little patch where I intend to place new one.
That way...can tell which site was used most recently and thus find a newer more fertile site...

10

Yes, I think there was a Seinfeld episode touching on this...

11

I agree with the others who commented it’s not sticking that’s a problem but removing whatever device. I use my beard trimmer to remove the hair as necessary.

12

No shaving. I have very little hair on my abdomen. Must be my African genes.

13

Yes, I the morning of the day I change my set. So the alcohol won't burn