Spring break and summer instill fear in a few diabetics for this reason: the pump. The insertion sites, as we all know, leave unsightly marks on the stomach, and the pump is square and bulky, making it hard to wear stylishly. I promise no answers, just some ideas on how to wear spring fashions without letting diabetes get in the way.
Bathing Suits
The bikini obsession of Spring Break is one of the hardest things to conquer as a diabetic. Even for guys, wearing just swim trunks shows off that insertion in ways you never want anyone else to see. I know many of you (girls and guys) are self conscious about having an insertion site on your stomach already, but when it comes time to show off that tan, it is even harder for a diabetic than it is for a non-diabetic.
I would suggest taking your insertion out for a day at the beach and simply testing your blood sugar once every hour and adjusting with shots to make sure you are still in control. If you are going to be spending every waking moment of your week-long spring break at the beach, I would suggest investing in a “pen.” An insulin pen stores more than a regular syringe and more than your pump. This way you can just do shots in your arms or legs during your vacation. Talk to your doctor to see if the pen is a good option for you.
Dresses
Spring fashion demands a girl have a sundress in her spring/summer wardrobe. Dresses are perfect to throw over a bathing suit, but they can also be practical for dinner out, or a lunch date. But what do you do when you are normally wearing your pump on your belt loop? This is one area where the pump disappoints. Try one of these options to make up for it:
-Wear the pump on your leg. Try finding a Velcro strap or a garter type of band to wear around your leg. Dresses are usually versatile enough to cover the rectangular machine. If you attach the pump to your leg, it will not be seen with all of the folds in a dress.
-Wear the pump under your armpit. Weird, I know, but you can simply run the tubing up the dress and wear the pump snugly behind your arm. It is even less noticeable if you turn the pump around and tuck it inside the dress, only letting the belt clip show to outsiders.
-Put the pump in your purse, and remember to keep you purse close to you. I would not suggest this for the forgetful ones out there. Remember that you are literally attached to your purse while pursuing this option.
-Taking off your pump is also an option. Just do shots or try using a pen. Again, talk to your doctor if you are not familiar with the pen.
Hopefully, you will still be able to have an amazing vacation laying in the sun and working on that tan. Remember to just be responsible; you’ll be able to have more fun in the long run. Happy Spring!