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5 Tips to Keep Your CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) On!


Having a hard time keeping your continuous glucose monitor on? I did too when I first started wearing one. After using the Freestyle Libre 1, 2, 3, and Dexcom G6 and G7, I discovered five helpful tips to ensure my sensor stays securely in place.


5 TIPS


1. Sensor Covers


I used a sensor cover for the first two months when I started using the Freestyle Libre. It helped me dramatically in keeping my sensor on. I still use one when I go to the beach or pool. Click here for my video on applying a sensor cover. To purchase sensor covers, click here! *The Dexcom G7 comes with its own cover.





2. Do Not Shower Right Away!


I shower and dry my body completely before applying a new sensor. Afterward, I use an alcohol pad on the area where I’ll place the new sensor. Once the sensor is applied, I avoid showering immediately.

  • Freestyle Libre: I wait 24 hours before showering to ensure the adhesive sticks well.

  • Dexcom: I wait 2-3 hours before showering to help the adhesive bond properly.


3. Applying Skin Tac


Skin Tac is amazing. Simply put it on BEFORE you apply your new sensor. I used Skin Tac wipes and then put a sensor cover over my sensor. My CGM was not going anywhere once I did this. *Please note, your sensor will be on your skin for days and Skin Tac makes sure it is stuck on there.


Link for Skin Tac, click here.



4. Seat Belt Adjusted Correctly


Hitting your continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on something can be painful—if you know, you know. I struggled with my seatbelt hitting my sensor, but I realized it was because the seatbelt was too high for my height. After adjusting it, the seatbelt no longer bothered me.

Is your seatbelt adjusted to your height correctly? Do you have a Diabetes Seatbelt Cover? This seatbelt cover makes me feel safer. If I get in a car wreck, or I am found unconscious, I want EMT to know I am insulin-dependent. Click here to purchase one.





5. Slowing Putting On/ Taking Off Your Clothes


I have bumped and pulled off many sensors simply by taking off my clothes or putting on my clothes too quickly. Clothes get caught on sensors. Hangers get caught on sensors. Go slow, and keep your sensor on. For some reason, when I am in a changing room I whip my shirt off and on and I have to remind myself to slow down!


I also make sure to carry my purse or bag on the opposite side of where I wear my continuous glucose monitor, as I’ve accidentally knocked it off with my bag before.


These tips have allowed me to move from bumping a sensor off a month to keeping most all my sensors on. If you sensor stops working or comes off before intended call the sensor company and ask for a replacement.


Dexcom's Customer Service Number:

888-738-3646

Freestyle Libre's Customer Service Number: 855-632-8658.


I have been on a continuous glucose monitor, or CGM, for a few years now and have been able to wear one without Skin Tac and a cover now. But, the first few months took some getting used to. Now, it's easy breezy!



*Please note, this is my personal experience. I am not a physician.






*I make a small commission for items sold through these links.



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