Compact medical device inserters, systems incorporating the same, and related methods of use are described. The inserters can include a housing, a sharp support, a sharp body, and a shroud, and can apply a sensor control device to a recipient with a sensor implanted in the recipient's body. The shroud can extend from the sensor control device in a position that covers or protects the sensor and a sharp, and can be retracted by pressure placed upon the inserter against the recipient's body to cause the sharp and sensor to penetrate the body, after which the sharp can be automatically withdrawn with the aid of a biasing element.
