Monitoring blood sugar regularly is essential for managing diabetes/prediabetes and preventing complications. Two primary tools are widely available today: traditional fingerstick blood glucose meters (BGM) and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Each offers unique advantages and considerations.

Understanding how these tools work can help determine the method that best supports your health goals, lifestyle, and treatment plan.

🩸 What Is a Fingerstick Blood Glucose Meter (BGM)?

A fingerstick meter is a small handheld device used to measure blood glucose from a drop of blood, usually obtained by pricking the fingertip with a lancet.

• A test strip is inserted into the device

• A drop of blood is applied to the strip for an instant reading

• Readings are typically taken several times a day, such as before meals, after meals, and at bedtime

✅ Pros:

• Widely available and relatively affordable

• Provides quick, real-time readings

• Simple and familiar technology

⚠️ Cons:

• Often requires multiple fingersticks daily, which may be uncomfortable or inconvenient

• Offers only single point-in-time data

• May miss fluctuations or overnight blood sugar changes

📡 What Is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?

A CGM uses a small sensor placed under the skin, usually via a patch that is typically placed on the arm or abdomen, to measure glucose in the interstitial fluid throughout the day and night. Data is sent automatically to a smartphone or reader device.

• Provides updated glucose readings every few minutes

• Sends alerts for rising or falling blood sugar levels

• Often used alongside apps to track trends and patterns

✅ Pros:

• Delivers a full picture of blood sugar trends, including overnight patterns

• Reduces the need for frequent fingersticks

• Helps detect hidden highs or lows before symptoms appear

• Supports smarter adjustments in medication, nutrition, and activity

⚠️ Cons:

• Potentially higher upfront and ongoing costs

• May require insurance authorization

• There can be a learning curve to interpret the data

• Some users may experience mild skin irritation from the sensor

🤔 Which One Is Right for You?

The best glucose monitoring option depends on several factors:

• Type of diabetes: Although CGMs can provide valuable insights to all patients, CGMs are often more necessary for people with type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes due to higher risks of hyper- and hypoglycemia

• Lifestyle preferences: CGMs may be ideal for those seeking fewer interruptions and deeper insight into patterns

• Budget and insurance coverage: Fingerstick meters are usually more accessible, while CGMs may require approval or copays

• Health goals: CGMs can reveal hidden trends and support tighter glucose control, especially in people experiencing frequent highs or lows

📅 Need Help Figuring Out What’s Right for You?

Reach7 Diabetes Studios offers expert consultations, including guidance on CGM setup, fingerstick techniques, and interpreting your data. Members also receive help with brand selection, device training, and insurance navigation. 

Book your session today to explore your options with confidence.