Get the most out of your Instinct sensor, made by Abbott

Excited to try the Instinct sensor

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of trying new diabetes technology!

I’m Cheryl, a MiniMed employee living with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years, and receiving my Instinct sensors, made by Abbott, was definitely a highlight for me. It was time to say goodbye to my old transmitter, extra tape, and inserter and hello to longer wear and a smaller sensor that includes the transmitter.

I’d like to share some things I learned from my experience with the Instinct sensor.
 

Applying the sensor is very simple

I’ve been using Medtronic CGMs for a while and sensor insertion could sometimes feel a bit complicated. With Instinct, the process is refreshingly easy. In just a few simple steps I was done in less time than my previous CGM! 

I’ll admit, I followed the instructions closely for my first few sensors because it almost seemed too simple. If you ever struggled with one-handed insertion using Guardian™ sensors, you’ll love how effortless Instinct is.
 

The sensor graph looks different

For me, “new sensor day” used to mean waiting out a 2-hour warm up, which sometimes sent my blood glucose on a little rollercoaster. Instinct’s 1-hour warm up makes the transition so much smoother, and I’ve found it’s easier to get back into SmartGuard™ quickly. 

Plus, the Instinct sensor sends glucose updates more often than other sensors. You might notice your sensor graph looks a little bumpier or less smooth — that’s just because you’re getting even more real-time information. 

This caught me off guard at first, but I know the system still uses the same Smart Guard™ technology to keep my glucose levels steady, and the data hasn’t changed but my view of the data had.^†
 

Get up to 15 days of wear

Go from changing my CGM from 6-7 days to every two weeks? Yes, please! Fewer changes mean fewer pokes, less to carry, and less to keep track of. As a working mom, I can appreciate that!

When it’s time to change your sensor, just open the MiniMed™ Mobile app to get started —the pump will even remind you when there’s one day left, so you don’t have to keep track. If you need some additional tips about keeping your sensor on for 15 days, check out the Instinct sensor application guide.

Be sure to wear your MiniMed 780G pump and Instinct sensor on the same side of your body. This helps them “talk” to each other and share real-time information. Your infusion set can be worn on either side, so you have flexibility.

Takeaway: find your rhythm 

Of course, every new technology comes with a bit of a learning curve. It took me a couple of weeks to really sync up with Instinct. I checked my blood glucose with my meter occasionally and paid close attention during those first few weeks. But just like with anything new, you find your groove and things smooth out.
If you’re considering switching to Instinct, I hope my experience helps you feel confident and excited about what’s ahead!

† Individual results may vary