When someone collapses due to sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. Quick action, including performing CPR and using an defibrillator, can dramatically improve survival rates. However, studies show that women are significantly less likely than men to receive bystander CPR in public. And it’s not because they require different medical care.

So, what’s causing this life-threatening gap in treatment? Several key factors may be at play:

1. Fear of Inappropriate Touching

Many bystanders hesitate to perform chest compressions on a woman due to concerns about touching her chest. This fear can lead to dangerous inaction. However, in an emergency, the priority should always be saving a life. Performing CPR correctly, with hands placed in the center of the chest, is a medical intervention, not an inappropriate act.

2. AED Hesitation

Using an AED can be life-saving, but it requires placing electrode pads directly on the skin. For women, this often means removing clothing, including a bra, which can cause hesitation among bystanders who feel uncomfortable or unsure about the process. However, AEDs are designed to be used on all bodies, and removing clothing is a necessary step to ensure the device can analyze heart rhythms and deliver a shock if needed.

3. Lack of Realistic Training

CPR training often uses manikins that have flat chests, meaning most people never practice on a realistic female torso. This can create uncertainty about where to place hands and how to perform compressions effectively on a woman’s body. More inclusive training, featuring diverse manikins that represent different body types, could help eliminate this barrier and ensure that everyone receives equal care.

If someone collapses and is unresponsive, act fast. Call for help, push hard and fast in the center of the chest, and use an AED if available. Don’t let fear or discomfort stop you from saving a life.

Would you feel confident stepping in during an emergency? Training and education are key. Consider taking a certified first aid and CPR course to prepare yourself to take action when it matters most.

https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.123.031113

https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.118.037692