For many years, CPR training has unintentionally focused on a “one-size-fits-all” approach, which in reality has often meant teaching lifesaving skills using male-only manikins and male-centred language. While CPR principles remain the same regardless of gender, the way we teach and practise them matters more than we may realise.
Recent research and real-world data have highlighted a concerning trend: women are statistically less likely to receive bystander CPR than men. One of the contributing factors is hesitation as people worry about doing something wrong, causing harm, or behaving inappropriately when performing CPR on a woman. These concerns can cost valuable time in a cardiac arrest situation.
Progress in Training Equipment
The good news is that training suppliers are responding. Many now offer female CPR manikins that include visible breasts and more realistic female anatomy. This is a positive and necessary step forward. It helps normalise the idea that cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, and it allows learners to practise CPR on bodies that reflect the real world.
Using a mix of manikins during training sends a clear message: lifesaving skills apply to everyone.
Talking Openly About Women in CPR Training
Equipment alone is not enough. As trainers, we have a responsibility to address the topic openly and confidently during our courses.
This includes:
- Clearly stating that CPR should be started immediately on anyone who is unresponsive and not breathing normally, regardless of gender.
- Normalising chest exposure for effective CPR and AED use.
- Talking about bras, including underwired bras, and explaining that they may need to be removed or cut if they interfere with chest compressions or AED pad placement.
- Reassuring learners that preserving life always comes before concerns about modesty.
Avoiding these conversations can reinforce uncertainty. Addressing them directly builds confidence.
Building Confidence Saves Lives
When learners practise CPR on female manikins and hear inclusive, straightforward explanations, it removes the “unknown”. Confidence improves, hesitation reduces, and the likelihood of early intervention increases.
As instructors and training providers, we are in a position to shape attitudes as well as skills. By ensuring our teaching reflects real people, real situations and real concerns, we help create rescuers who are ready to act without doubt.
CPR training should empower everyone to save anyone. Representation, language and honest conversation all play a vital role in making that happen.