I've been using the CGM system with my Paradigm pump off and on for a couple of years. Overall I like it, but check to make sure your insurance co-pays don't cost too much on the sensor sets. I would have loved to use it continuously but couldn't afford it, so I would use it for a couple of weeks, then take a break. You can wear a sensor for more than one session, although it is not officially sanctioned. I'm on a new insurance plan, so hopefully I'll be able to use it continuously.

CGM is a great tool as long as you understand what it is for, trend data, rather than a specific blood glucose level. Never make the mistake of calculating a bolus off of your CGM reading! Always use the meter. Most of the time the calibration is pretty good, but sometimes your CGM says one thing and your meter says another. Trust the meter!

For butterfly0702's specific question, placement hasn't been an issue for me. I just alternate the sensor location as I do my infusion sets. The best for me are the waist (putting them lovehandles to good use) and the front belly area, which I usually reserve for the sensor rather than the infusion sets. That is because the sensor and your Paradigm need to be in the same vicinity (not quite line of sight, but close). Otherwise the RF signal will get blocked by your body. Depending upon the length of your infusion set tubing that may or may not be a problem. While I have experimented with different placement of the infusion sets, I haven't had a need to try other locations. If I did, however, I'd consider the top of the buttocks. You might check with insulinpumpers.org as I am sure some of the folks there will have some experiences to share.

I always put medical tape over my sensor. Try a couple of different brands and hopefully you'll find one that works. IV-3000 works well for me. One thing you might try is to change your medical tape every couple of days, or just put it on when you are exercising. The tape is not really necessary, but as you've noted it can be a real pain if you don't have it. You might also try just using some painter's or scotch tape over the sensor during your workout, as long as it will stick to your skin.

Hope this helps...

I'm waiting for the Animas Vibe to be FDA approved. An all in one infusion set/ CGM. That would be so much easier. I don't want 2 things attached to me at once.

im currently using the dexcom cgm and love it love it love it! i use a skin adhesive called skin tack wipes and that does the trick for me. stays on through showers sweat and even swimming. oh and yeh i also cant wait for the animus vibe!!

Got my Dexcom after using the Medtronic CGM. Dexcom is SO much better and now I see why people go with the Medtronic pump, Dexcom sensor. An extra device and all the hassle that goes with it, but the accuracy is worth it!

I've been using the CGM for about 2 years. I'm a competitive athlete and always had trouble keeping the site on until I found the sweet spot on my hip where it doesn't get jostled or rubbed during my workouts. I generally put the sensor on my side (closer to the butt), right below my waist, where it is covered by my underwear and doesn't get scratched by my pants.

As far as tape, I discovered that less is more when you are sweating. The less surface area you have for sweat to get underneath, the better. I use one strip of athletic tape (the kind used to tape ankles) and put it diagonally across the sensor and catheter. It isn't perfect, but I am able to keep the sensor on for 4-5 days at a time.

The CGM is awesome for predicting highs and lows, once you get the settings perfected for you. I like being able to know during a workout that I am going to be low after so I can grab some Gatorade to prevent the low.

And as a single girl, I really like the notifications at night when I am home alone. Wakes me up in time to treat the low/high.