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    • 8 hours, 1 minute ago
      KarenM6 likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Somewhat satisfied with TSlimX2. Not because of pump shortcomings, but because of the sheer insanity of trying to get routine supplies through the American health care system. My current situation, to wit: "I am experiencing extreme frustration with Medicare that, 1) has an inoperable website, and 2) has an inoperable AI phone answering service. Consequently, I can no longer acquire needed supplies to operate the tSlimX2, particularly the T:Lock TruSteel 8mm 32.” This situation has persisted for 2 months. 😬
    • 9 hours, 48 minutes ago
      Kristi Warmecke likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      Well, since I'm waiting on pump supplies for 2 months now, my confidence is slipping.
    • 9 hours, 49 minutes ago
      Laurie B likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I've often said that "hoarding": is a character asset for T1D people. I try to purchase (paying out of pocket) a 60-90 day supply - just in case). I have a new health plan,. effective 1/1/26. AS we know, getting an appt with an HCP isn't easy. They have to be accepting new patients, they have to be in network etc. Once I knew what my new policy would be (nov 2025) I made an appt. The earliest appt I could get was in Sept 2026. Thank goodness for my stash of device supplies. I had to go to Urgent care to get an Rx for insulin (my old HMO plan "doesn't do bridge refills"). So yeah, I worry, and plan for hiccups in the supplies process.
    • 9 hours, 49 minutes ago
      Kristi Warmecke likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I answered slightly. I'm absolutely certain supplies and medication will be available. However, I'm doubtful they will be affordable. If I can't afford them, I can't access them.
    • 10 hours, 48 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I am confident about access to my medical needs in the immediate future. I am not a fortune teller and have no idea what my access to medical supplies will be like in a year or longer. I don't take my spoiled lifestyle for granted.
    • 10 hours, 48 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I've often said that "hoarding": is a character asset for T1D people. I try to purchase (paying out of pocket) a 60-90 day supply - just in case). I have a new health plan,. effective 1/1/26. AS we know, getting an appt with an HCP isn't easy. They have to be accepting new patients, they have to be in network etc. Once I knew what my new policy would be (nov 2025) I made an appt. The earliest appt I could get was in Sept 2026. Thank goodness for my stash of device supplies. I had to go to Urgent care to get an Rx for insulin (my old HMO plan "doesn't do bridge refills"). So yeah, I worry, and plan for hiccups in the supplies process.
    • 10 hours, 49 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I answered slightly. I'm absolutely certain supplies and medication will be available. However, I'm doubtful they will be affordable. If I can't afford them, I can't access them.
    • 10 hours, 52 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I am worried about the changes to Medicare making no provision for getting an immediate replacement if a pump fails. It sounds like we will have to get these from the suppliers instead of a warranty replacement from Tandem themselves (or whatever brand you use). Pumps will be rented and will have to be returned so they can verify the problem before replacing them, which is ridiculous. Meanwhile, Medicare would not pay for us to get long acting insulin as a temporary replacement for the basal.
    • 10 hours, 54 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I broke down for the first time in 25 years and bought a bottle of insulin because I think I may have thrown a bottle out with the box. Medicare wouldn’t fill the prescription because it was too early. I just didn’t want the fight and worry. I’m not sure that’s what happened but it’s the only explanation. Also, I live in Florida and the threat of losing power is always there. I should get a generator but I’m a little afraid of them and you still can’t be sure you have access to propane. If my insulin goes bad, I’m not sure I could get refills. My back up plan is to leave before hurricane or go to a hospital. But it is all just causes concern.
    • 11 hours, 8 minutes ago
      Derek West likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Very! However, I wish I could use Fiasp insulin in the Tandem pumps.
    • 13 hours, 43 minutes ago
      Bruce Schnitzler likes your comment at
      How confident are you about having consistent access to the diabetes supplies and medication you need?
      I broke down for the first time in 25 years and bought a bottle of insulin because I think I may have thrown a bottle out with the box. Medicare wouldn’t fill the prescription because it was too early. I just didn’t want the fight and worry. I’m not sure that’s what happened but it’s the only explanation. Also, I live in Florida and the threat of losing power is always there. I should get a generator but I’m a little afraid of them and you still can’t be sure you have access to propane. If my insulin goes bad, I’m not sure I could get refills. My back up plan is to leave before hurricane or go to a hospital. But it is all just causes concern.
    • 14 hours, 15 minutes ago
      Karen Newe likes your comment at
      How often do people confuse type 1 and type 2 diabetes in your experience?
      The most common comment: but you aren’t heavy. That’s when we get into the differences. A relative tried to tell me that insulin makes you lose weight. But when we last discussed this, one of you said it best: if it isn’t in their circle of experience, why would they know or care?
    • 14 hours, 32 minutes ago
      KSannie likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Very! However, I wish I could use Fiasp insulin in the Tandem pumps.
    • 14 hours, 33 minutes ago
      KSannie likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Somewhat satisfied with TSlimX2. Not because of pump shortcomings, but because of the sheer insanity of trying to get routine supplies through the American health care system. My current situation, to wit: "I am experiencing extreme frustration with Medicare that, 1) has an inoperable website, and 2) has an inoperable AI phone answering service. Consequently, I can no longer acquire needed supplies to operate the tSlimX2, particularly the T:Lock TruSteel 8mm 32.” This situation has persisted for 2 months. 😬
    • 14 hours, 34 minutes ago
      KSannie likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      My first reaction was Very Satisfied but there is always room for improvement. I’d like a pump design that wasn’t meant to be worn on a belt just for men. To wear a dress, I have to only get those with pockets (and on both sides because opposite sides cause the CGM to lose contact) and put a button whole in each. The clip shows horribly on blouses worn out. I’ve tried the leg attachments and they never stay secure. I’m not big enough to wear it in my bra. All minor inconveniences. I’d like one that doesn’t keep alarming 20 minutes after I’ve eaten, although I get it that it is there to save my life. Again minor. Ask about CGMs (probably tomorrow’s question): lately I’ve had trouble removing the sensor from my arm without actually ripping off a strip of skin or very bad bruising. I’ve read about using baby oil for removal. That does help. I’m a rip it off fast person, but that didn’t work so well.
    • 16 hours, 1 minute ago
      Patricia Dalrymple likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Try Uni-Solve Adhesive Remover (smith&nephew)- wipe it on wait a minute to let it work and it will come off easy. at least it works great for me and I've tried several different brands, I use it for CGM & Omnipod removal
    • 23 hours, 1 minute ago
      Sandy Norman likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Somewhat satisfied with TSlimX2. Not because of pump shortcomings, but because of the sheer insanity of trying to get routine supplies through the American health care system. My current situation, to wit: "I am experiencing extreme frustration with Medicare that, 1) has an inoperable website, and 2) has an inoperable AI phone answering service. Consequently, I can no longer acquire needed supplies to operate the tSlimX2, particularly the T:Lock TruSteel 8mm 32.” This situation has persisted for 2 months. 😬
    • 1 day, 6 hours ago
      kristina blake likes your comment at
      How often do people confuse type 1 and type 2 diabetes in your experience?
      There are several conversations about this across social media. Many people chime in and vote for a new, more accurate name for type 1.. some of the popular alternatives- Pancreatic Autoimmune Disease, Beta Cell Destruction Disease, Autoimmune Diabetes, Autoimmune Insulin Failure, Autoimmune Absolute Insulin Deficiency (AAID)
    • 1 day, 6 hours ago
      kristina blake likes your comment at
      How often do people confuse type 1 and type 2 diabetes in your experience?
      The most common comment: but you aren’t heavy. That’s when we get into the differences. A relative tried to tell me that insulin makes you lose weight. But when we last discussed this, one of you said it best: if it isn’t in their circle of experience, why would they know or care?
    • 1 day, 6 hours ago
      kristina blake likes your comment at
      How often do people confuse type 1 and type 2 diabetes in your experience?
      In my experience the average person does not know the difference. It does not help that the commercials on TV just say diabetes and do not differentiate.
    • 1 day, 8 hours ago
      Kristi Warmecke likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Somewhat satisfied with TSlimX2. Not because of pump shortcomings, but because of the sheer insanity of trying to get routine supplies through the American health care system. My current situation, to wit: "I am experiencing extreme frustration with Medicare that, 1) has an inoperable website, and 2) has an inoperable AI phone answering service. Consequently, I can no longer acquire needed supplies to operate the tSlimX2, particularly the T:Lock TruSteel 8mm 32.” This situation has persisted for 2 months. 😬
    • 1 day, 11 hours ago
      Lee Tincher likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      If I could get a CGM that is consistent and predictable I'd be very happy with the Twiist or the Tandem. The weak point with pumps used to be infusion sites, but now that we are relying on poor performing technology to support potentially great algorithms itis quite frustrating.
    • 1 day, 13 hours ago
      Beckett Nelson likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      My first reaction was Very Satisfied but there is always room for improvement. I’d like a pump design that wasn’t meant to be worn on a belt just for men. To wear a dress, I have to only get those with pockets (and on both sides because opposite sides cause the CGM to lose contact) and put a button whole in each. The clip shows horribly on blouses worn out. I’ve tried the leg attachments and they never stay secure. I’m not big enough to wear it in my bra. All minor inconveniences. I’d like one that doesn’t keep alarming 20 minutes after I’ve eaten, although I get it that it is there to save my life. Again minor. Ask about CGMs (probably tomorrow’s question): lately I’ve had trouble removing the sensor from my arm without actually ripping off a strip of skin or very bad bruising. I’ve read about using baby oil for removal. That does help. I’m a rip it off fast person, but that didn’t work so well.
    • 1 day, 14 hours ago
      John Barbuto likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      I have been using a insulin smart pen for the last 2 years; I find that it meets my current needs to ensure good management and results
    • 1 day, 15 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      How satisfied are you with your current insulin pump brand/model?
      Somewhat satisfied with TSlimX2. Not because of pump shortcomings, but because of the sheer insanity of trying to get routine supplies through the American health care system. My current situation, to wit: "I am experiencing extreme frustration with Medicare that, 1) has an inoperable website, and 2) has an inoperable AI phone answering service. Consequently, I can no longer acquire needed supplies to operate the tSlimX2, particularly the T:Lock TruSteel 8mm 32.” This situation has persisted for 2 months. 😬
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    Do you use overlay tapes on your diabetes devices to help them stick?

    Home > LC Polls > Do you use overlay tapes on your diabetes devices to help them stick?
    Previous

    How often do you typically test your basal rates?

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    For insulin pump/CGM users who wear dresses and skirts: How often do devices get in the way of your ability to comfortably wear dresses and skirts?

    Sarah Howard

    Sarah Howard has worked in the diabetes research field ever since she was diagnosed with T1D while in college in May 2013. Since then, she has worked for various diabetes organizations, focusing on research, advocacy, and community-building efforts for people with T1D and their loved ones. Sarah is currently the Senior Marketing Manager at T1D Exchange.

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    40 Comments

    1. Carol Meares

      Always my Dexcom, sometimes my infusion set

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    2. Janice B

      For my Dexcom I use a skin barrier, then skin tac. That seems to help it stay on for the full 10 days. For the pump infusion site it depends on where I place it. on my thighs I need to use opsite flexifit tape and that helps it to stay on.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    3. Bob Durstenfeld

      The only time I use a cover tape is when I wear my infusion site on my thighs, the friction from my pants works it lose, the tegaderm protects it.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    4. William Bennett

      It’s a requirement for the Med. Guardian 3 sensors, one of the things that finally put me off of that system, because it’s not just a simple process, very badly designed if you’re at all fumble-fingered. With Dexcom I usually don’t have to, but they supply their own overtape that’s easy to apply even in awkward spots. In either case, though: Skin Tac is your friend.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    5. Kristen Schell

      My endo told me that Dexcom recently improved the stickiness of the G6 (September/October time frame). Prior to this change, I had to use an overlay every time to get close to saying on for 10 days. Now with the change, I am usually able to wear it for the whole 10 days without the overlay. I am unfortunately allergic to the new stickiness material so I have to use Flonase on the spot where I will insert the G6 or else it will begin to itch and be irritated within about 5 hours. The Flonase works great!

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    6. Clare Fishman

      Pods stick to me like glue. I have to pry them off after 80 hours. Dexcom sensors stick well for at least 10 days. If I re-start them sometimes the edges pull up so I secure it with the free patches Dexcom gives out.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    7. connie ker

      I learned the hard way with the Abbott Freestyle Libre 14 day. The sensor was coming off too early or simply falling off my arm when changing clothes or bathing. The transparent patches of clear tape have solved that problem and I’m glad I asked the the companies, Abbott and US Med, about this transparent tape. It is easy to remove and so is the sensor, plus it stays on for 14 days now. YEAH

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    8. john36m

      I add extra adhesives to my Dexcom, but never to my pump/infusion set

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    9. Amanda Barras

      I have to double tape my CGM but never have the need to tape down infusion set.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    10. Grey Gray

      Ditto cgm but not infusion sets.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    11. Britni Steingard

      I answered sometimes. It’s actually always for the CGM and occasionally for the pod.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    12. Chip Brookes

      Always use over patches on both Dexcom G6 and T-slim. Use Dexcom’s patch, Make my own for the T-slim from AREZA Transparent Adhesive Film Dressing. Very inexpensive for 100.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    13. jenn velez

      I always use dexcoms overlay tape for my sensors. For Tandem sites I only use IV3000 when using trusteel. I’ve had the needle come out too many times.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    14. Wayne Schwartz

      I always use extra tape on my Dexcom and infusion site. I am a big guy and bumping into things can tear them off. Also live in very tropical Southwest Florida so perspiration is also an issue not to mention swimming and salt water. Extra tape and patches are a must.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    15. Francisco Varea

      Just the tape that comes with the Guardian sensor.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    16. Maureen Helinski

      same as others. Always for G6 sensor-their overtape. Not for infusion sets except trusteel

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    17. Tina Roberts

      Always over my sensor and transmitter.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    18. Donald Stitt

      I use tape over the CGM only. I take my pump off to shower so I don’t tape over the infusion site…

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    19. cynthia jaworski

      Now that I have a better understanding of where to place it, my libre seldom detaches. The few times it has, it was always because I had scraped my arm against a doorway.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    20. lis be

      skin tack for my libre

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    21. Kristine Warmecke

      Never on my pump sites. If by overlay tapes you mean tegaderm hypersensitive, yes I place it UNDER my G6 , so it stays on for the full 10 days.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    22. Tom Caesar

      Hardly ever. Tried them for awhile but don’t have the need for frequent use.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    23. Sondra Mangan

      Always for Dexcom. Only for decoration on Omnipods.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    24. Mig Vascos

      Using Dexcom Overlay Patch for the CGM. Dexcom provides it for free. It’s easy to apply and protects the sensor for the entire duration. Surgical paper tape for the back end of the Tandem infusion set. It keeps it firmly in place for longer and makes it deliver the insulin more efficiently.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    25. Christina Trudo

      I answered sometimes but the real answer is “frequently”. I also use a skin prep wipe (tacky sort of stuff) to help avoid skin breakdown.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    26. Adrienne Hitch

      Always for my sensors, very rarely for infusion sets.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    27. Linda Murphy

      Skin Tack does the trick, no more tape.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    28. Molly Jones

      I rarely need any help in needing my devices stick. My “other” answer would be at the most, four times a year.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    29. Glenda Schuessler

      I use overlay patches for my Dexcom CGM but I find they are not needed for my pump infusion sets.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    30. Megan L

      I have to use Mastisol and that lovely tape that comes with the Medtronic 670g sensors to get it to stick. I’m okay with just skin prep wipes for my pump sites. Those sensors though… my goodness. Holy unlucky skin.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    31. Sarah Grobe

      I have to put duoderm under my sensor to prevent a rash. Nothing but that has worked and i use expression med overpatches to keep everything on.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    32. Christina Luby

      For my Medtronic CGM sensors I use simpatch on top of the. Overlay tapes

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    33. Melinda Lipe

      No overlays, just Skin Tac on my G6.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    34. Derek West

      I use overlays on the Medtronic sensor but none on my insulin insertion.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    35. Donald Cragun

      I use Skin-Tac when applying CGM sensors; not overlays.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    36. Janis Senungetuk

      I use the Dexcom overlay tape for the G6. So far I haven’t found it necessary to use anything for my Tandem Infusion sets.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    37. Lynn Green

      I have very sensitive skin and I’m limited on which tape I can use. I use the dexcom overlay for the dexcom sensor. The tape on the dexcom sensor starts to lift after a few days without the overlay. I use tegaderm for the t-slim true steel since no tape is provided. Without tape the tubing would get caught on something and the site would be pulled out.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    38. Nicholas Argento

      I rarely need to but used to. Now I use Skin-Tac on Dexcom and it rarely peels before the end of the 10 days. I don’t need tape for my pump sites, it sticks well for me unless a lot of sweating, then I just change it and start using Skin Tac as well. Skin Tac has been a game changer for me.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    39. Jodi Greenfield

      I put “other” because I have not tried the overlay products, but a friend of my husband’s uses the FreeStyle Libre CGM and was having the same trouble I was having with the new glue they switched to. Skin Tac adhesive, put on the site before insertion keeps the disc on there for 14 days! Now I have trouble removing it – like I did before they switched glue.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply
    40. Cheryl Seibert

      Both Medtronic and Tandem infusion site adhesives work well for me. However, the Dexcom G6 tape occasionally comes loose around the edges when I’m heavily exercising/working outside or on Day 9 and 10. I sparingly use the G6 overlay tape as it often causes welts.

      5 years ago Log in to Reply

    Do you use overlay tapes on your diabetes devices to help them stick? Cancel reply

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