Myths and Facts – Insulin Pumps

Myth: You have to get surgery.

Fact: Many individuals believe that you need surgery before you can use an insulin pump. This simply is not true. Insulin pumps are small, portable devices about the size of a small cell phone or MP3 player. It can be worn on a belt or in a pouch outside your clothes, and it delivers insulin continuously through a small tube placed under your skin.

Myth: Wearing an insulin pump is uncomfortable.

Fact: It can take a little bit of time to get used to wearing your new insulin pump. When you first start using your pump, you may feel the insertion site. However, once you get used to wearing your pump, you may forget about it until you need to give yourself a bolus or change your infusion set.

Paradigm 522 shown with infusion set

Myth: You can forget you have diabetes.

Fact: To use your insulin pump properly, you need to be trained how to use it. You will need to check your blood sugar levels before meals and at bedtime, determine how many carbohydrates you'll eat, and program those values into your insulin pump. The insulin pump will then calculate and suggest therapy based on your individualised programmed settings.

Myth: Anyone can use an insulin pump.

Fact: Insulin pumps are indicated for any individual with diabetes mellitus who requires insulin. The ideal person for an insulin pump may be one who is willing to learn how to use the pump, has a strong support team, and is physically and mentally ready to incorporate a pump into their life.

Next: Is a Continuous Glucose Monitor Right for You?

Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

Last updated: 16 Mar 2009