Switching from MDI to an Insulin Pump & Tandem vs Medtronic
The technology we use to manage diabetes can have a huge impact on our well-being. Making the choice to switch management styles is a big decision and not to mention all the different options we have when it comes to CGMs (continuous glucose monitors) and insulin pumps. Below I discuss my personal experience getting an insulin pump and compare the Medtronic 670G to the Tandem t:slim X2.
If you’d prefer the video version of this blog, find it here.
It was about 4 years ago when I decided to give the insulin pump a try and I was terrified. I was quite comfortable in doing MDI (multiple daily injections) as I had been for the past 10 years and had all these questions of “how will it be to sleep with a pump on?”, “is the tubing annoying?”, “do the sites hurt?” and more. I decided on using the Medtronic 670G pump and luckily, had the guidance of my close friend, Heather, who had been on the Medtronic pump for a while. I found it surprisingly easy to adjust to the pump and I loved the convenience of taking insulin whenever and wherever.
Sleeping with a Pump on
This was a big concern of mine but my mind was put to ease when giving the pump a try. I hardly ever have any issues sleeping with a pump on and it is easy to clip to PJs or put in my pocket. The only difficulty I have found is if I have an uncomfortable site on my outer thigh or hip, and I am sleeping on that side, it can cause some discomfort. Usually, it is tolerable and the discomfort fades and if not, I will change the site.
Dealing with Tubing and Sites
I personally don’t mind the tubing but for people looking for a tubeless option, Omnipod is worth trying. As far as sites go, I try to rotate mine around as much as possible to avoid building up scar tissue. I do sites on my thighs, butt, hips, lower back (sometimes), stomach, and more recently, arms. In an effort to avoid overusing one area, I always move from my thigh to my hip to my butt to my lower back to my arm, and so on… This makes it so I don’t have to think about where I’ve been putting my sites lately and where I want to move the next one to.
Medtronic Pump
This pump worked great for me at the time and I used it for over 4 years but I do like the Tandem t:slim pump much better. Below is a breakdown.
Easy site changes
Technology is a bit outdated (no touch screen, a bit bulky)
Battery operated
Medtronic CGM wasn’t the best in my opinion (tech could be better now, this was 4 years ago). It was often inaccurate and bulky
Good customer service
Tandem t:slim Pump
Site changes take a bit longer but still easy
More advanced (slimmer and touch screen)
Chargeable
Pairs with Dexcom CGM and uses control IQ (I do not have a CGM but overall people seem to like Dexcom)
Good customer service
All of this is just my personal experience and opinion, if you have any questions about insulin pumps and CGMs, consult your doctor. Leave a comment below and let me know what diabetes technology you use and how you like it!