I've had diabetes for nearly 14 years. For almost 13 years I have been using tubed pumps (Medtronic Minimed for the last 8). I had very positive experiences with my pumps. But, the idea of having a pump that didn't have to be disconnected for showers and swimming was very appealing. I once took my Minimed into a pool with me. It didn't like that very much (I had a replacement pump within about 18 hours). I also liked the idea of having no tubing to deal with.
So, I got my training last night and started pumping with my Pod. I felt like I already had experience with it just from reading discussions here. I was not sure what to expect with the automatic insertion. I barely felt anything! Much better than manually inserting my old sets. I'm looking forward to trying it on my arms and back, and possibly my legs.
Thanks to everyone who has asked and answered questions on this forum! I know that if I have any questions/problems there will be no shortage of answers and advice from all of you! So far I'm very happy to be a part of the OmniPod community!
Thanks Belinda! I still have the old one. Since I just started and I have 4 boxes I would expect my next order to be the new Pods along with the new PDM.
That's fantastic! I hope you enjoy the omnipod! and Please, please, please, try your legs! It took me the longest time to talk myself into using the legs, and now it is one of my prefered places for the pod.
Your post reminded me the time when I "cut the cord" in March 2012. I remember pulling it off a few times within the first month. I guess it takes a bit to get used to it. Be aware :-) and don't get discouraged.
You place it in the same parts of the arm or leg you’d inject into & you keep it vertical (in the direction of the bone, or upside down). On the torso, it goes around the body, horizontally, like a belt buckle.
Welcome to the club! Most have a great experience with the pod. I hope yours is, as well. It's amazing sometimes how the insertion is pain free. Every once in a while, you'll get close to a nerve and get a bit of a sting, but it's usually not too bad. Rarely, you may have to change your pod because insertion and/or bolusing is especially painful, but I haven't had to do that in a long time. Good luck!
I put it right on top of my thigh, I love it. and it you put it slightly off to the side it just looks like you have something in your pocket. At first I was afraid of it getting caught on my pants but it was perfectly fine.
I've never considered using my thigh but will likely have to try with the smaller ones. When you say "pants," do you mean jeans or dress slacks? I don't know whether I could handle it there with jeans.
Thanks Jim! The biggest adjustment so far has been not reaching for my pump on my hip! It's second nature after almost 13 years of using a tubed pump!
I had some stinging from bolusing for the first day or so, but it wasn't so bad that I felt I needed to change. That happened occasionally with my Minimed as well. But the ease of insertion is great!
Welcome to the club. Sounds like that you're off to a great start. I've been podding for a little over 2½ years. It took me about 2 months to stop reaching for my old Cozmo on my waist. I had been tubing for about 5 years so I can imagine what it must be like after 13. Good luck and keep coming back here for questions, suggestions, and especially in those times of frustration. We've all been there and are glad to help!
Thanks KC! So far I'm really liking it. My kids are intrigued by the PDM (and my Dexcom receiver). I was never self conscious about having my pump visible on my waist, but this is the first time in 13 years that I don't have anything that indicates I'm using a medical device. Of course that could change if I wear it on my arm during summer with short sleeves.
Thanks for the support and I'm glad to be part of the club!
