I am relatively new to CGM (using the minimed system), and started out religiously changing my sensors every three days as instructed. Then I figured out (through the help of folks on these forums!) that I could actually "trick" the CGM into another round of three days of wear by establishing "new sensor" after the three days ran out. THEN, I figured out (again with feedback from you!) that if I recharge the battery on the transmitter, and start the above process again, I can essentially use the sensor until it won't work anymore, or until my site becomes irritated. So first, thank you!

My question is, how long is too long? My last one was in for 19 days, no probs with accuracy or at the site, but I freaked and figured I should replace it. One CDE chided me last week for not changing it every 6 days at least, but I can't really say that her concern was evidence-based (nor could she) for me or anyone else. And are there any additional risks or pitfalls of longer use of a CGM sensor that you've found?

I hate most about the Minimed CGM the insertion process, so I do, admittedly, just about anything to NOT have to change it if I don't have to... (though I have found great solace in topical lidocaine cream...).

Thanks!