Navigating water activities and sports with medical devices stuck to your body might raise concerns, but trust me, it’s typically safe! Whether it’s blood sugar sensors or insulin pumps, here are my experiences with different diabetes technology and water.
Continuous Glucose Monitors
Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 (continuous glucose monitor) is water resistant, and can be safely worn while swimming. I have gone swimming multiple times with my Dexcom, and have never had it fall off prematurely.
One thing to note is that bluetooth signals don’t travel well through water, which means I don’t get readings to my phone, so be prepared to not get any blood glucose readings during this time. It’s maybe a good idea to check your sugar level if you feel off (high/low) while swimming and adjust accordingly.
Dexcom G7
I’ve been using the Dexcom G7, which is an upgrade to the G6, for a couple of months now. While I haven’t gone swimming just yet, the G7 is meant to also be water resistant. I haven’t had any issues with adhesive yet either, so I have faith that the G7 can withstand water, just as much as the predecessor.
Freestyle Libre 2
I’ve spent many hours in swimming pools over the years I used the Libre, and I never had any issues (except one time I spent basically a whole day in a hot tub and the libre fell off, but that was to be expected).
I recommend getting a waterproof phone case to bring with you into the water to scan your Libre and check your blood sugar whenever! Also get some pics for bonus points.
Insulin Pumps
Tandem t-slim X2
The Tandem T-slim insulin pump is NOT waterproof!!! The pump needs to be disconnected from the body. This is done by removing the clip and tubing from the infusion set which is stuck on to your body.
It’s important to understand the difference between the insulin pump and the infusion set, because the infusion set/cannula can stay on.
You can use little stoppers that Tandem supply to stop anything from the water getting in, but l rarely use them as I forget.
The maximum amount of time without insulin is one hour. To get around this, I usually make a plan to bolus my hourly rate of insulin after being in the water for an hour.
Omnipod
While I don’t use this pump, the Omnipod has one main advantage: it is completely waterproof. This means you can swim around with it attached to your body til your hearts content, and don’t have to worry about a thing (for up to 60 minutes)!
Just keep swimming
Even though water activities require a lot more planning and thought with diabetes, it’s definitely worth it!
Thank you for reading ❤
Love, Lydia x
This is from my own experience and not medical advice, please consult a medical professional or the manufacturers if you are concerned.
LYD1A KERR 
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