9 Types of Breastfeeding Models To Educate New Parents

Providing new parents with the best start on their breastfeeding journeys takes more than just knowledge and encouragement. It requires meaningful, hands-on education that bridges gaps in understanding and builds the confidence every new family needs. Breastfeeding education models offer a tangible, interactive way for lactation consultants, midwives, and other healthcare professionals to demonstrate, explain, and troubleshoot real-world breastfeeding challenges, making parent education more impactful.

This guide explores nine types of breastfeeding models to educate new parents, their unique benefits, and how you can use them to support families. By the end, you’ll understand why a diverse toolkit matters for effective lactation instruction and where to find high-quality breastfeeding models, such as those offered by Cascade Health Care.

Understanding Breastfeeding Education Models

Breastfeeding education models replicate key features of the lactating breast, allowing educators to teach techniques, demonstrate challenges, and facilitate hands-on learning. These models vary in material, anatomical accuracy, and intended purpose. Some show only external structures, while others include internal anatomy or highlight specific conditions, such as mastitis or engorgement.

Most models are made from silicone, cloth, or plastic and usually aim to resemble the texture and appearance of real breast tissue. The rise of advanced models has made visual and tactile instruction accessible in every setting, from hospitals and birth centers to one-on-one virtual consultations. Used alongside educational baby dolls, breastfeeding models create immersive simulations and support skill-building for parents and healthcare teams.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding Models in Parent Education

Integrating breastfeeding models into teaching sessions provides the following measurable benefits for new parents:

• Enhanced understanding: Abstract concepts, such as proper latch or milk duct anatomy, become clear when demonstrated on a model.
• Hands-on experience: Parents can practice positions and techniques before attempting with their babies, increasing their confidence and reducing anxiety.
• Effective troubleshooting: Realistic models streamline the explanation of common challenges, such as engorgement or blocked ducts, helping parents learn proactive management.
• Consistent messaging: Models support uniform instruction across staff and care settings, ensuring each family receives reliable guidance.
• Inclusive learning: Visual and tactile learning benefit a range of learning styles, and models can also overcome language barriers or lack of prior experience.

When used thoughtfully, breastfeeding models are powerful teaching aids that empower parents and improve breastfeeding outcomes.

Common Types of Breastfeeding Models

Various breastfeeding models exist, each with a specific purpose in clinical and teaching environments. Some models focus on anatomy, while others simulate real-life scenarios or address breastfeeding complications. Below, we highlight nine types of breastfeeding models to educate new parents.

1. Deluxe Breast Model

This high-fidelity breast model is a staple for in-depth lactation training. Its lifelike skin texture and detailed anatomy allow educators to demonstrate proper infant latch, position adjustments, and hand techniques, such as breast compressions or expressing milk. Because this model closely mimics the feel of human tissue, it is especially helpful for hands-on group instruction or clinical workshops with healthcare trainees.

Application Tip

Use the deluxe model to demonstrate positioning for cross-cradle and football holds, letting parents practice finger placement and compression motions.

2. Two-Color Breastfeeding Model

With a distinctive dual-tone design, this model highlights the nipple and areola, making it easier to show the difference between these key regions. It is perfect for demonstrating where the baby’s mouth should latch and how much areola needs to be in the baby’s mouth for an effective latch.

Application Tip

Use this model to help parents visualize what a good latch looks like, emphasizing how the baby’s lips should flange over the colored areola section.

3. Transparent Breastfeeding Model

A transparent design provides a comprehensive view of the internal breast anatomy, including ducts, glands, and connective tissue. This model is a favorite for illustrating how milk travels from the alveoli to the nipple, helping parents and staff appreciate the biological mechanics of lactation.

Application Tip

Pair this model with visuals or handouts that detail milk flow, using the clear view to walk parents through the pathway milk follows during a feed.

4. Breastfeeding Model With Cross Section

Cross-sectional models display both internal and external structures in one view, offering educators a dynamic way to discuss issues like clogged ducts, engorgement, and mastitis. The ability to see inside the breast clarifies how different regions interact and why positioning impacts milk flow.

Application Tip

When addressing questions about plugged ducts or persistent soreness, use the cross section to trace where problems commonly develop and show how careful positioning can help.

5. Silicone Breastfeeding Model

Soft, medical-grade silicone models closely approximate real breast tissue, making them extremely useful for hands-on demonstration and parent practice. Flexible and durable, silicone allows for repeated squeezing and manipulation without losing shape.

Application Tip

Use silicone models to teach hand expression. Encourage parents to practice until the sweet spot for expressing milk feels familiar.

6. Mastitis Teaching Model

Specifically developed to illustrate the symptoms and management of mastitis, this model displays signs of inflammation, including redness and swelling. Educators can walk through common triggers for mastitis, preventive strategies, and step-by-step management.

Application Tip

Have parents compare the mastitis model with a healthy one so they can spot the visual differences early. Additionally, demonstrate massage techniques to ease discomfort and support healing.

7. Engorgement Teaching Model

The engorgement model demonstrates the signs, symptoms, and relief methods for an overly full breast. This condition is common in the days following birth, and early education about it fosters comfort and establishes good feeding patterns.

Application Tip

Use this model to guide parents through gentle massage, milk expression, and frequent feeding to alleviate engorgement.

8. Multifunctional Breastfeeding Model

The multifunctional model combines detailed anatomy with adjustable features. It’s a versatile addition to the educator’s toolkit. Some models allow you to simulate different positions or nipple variations or show the use of breast shields and other aids.

Application Tip

Utilize all the adjustable features to help parents troubleshoot various situations, from inverted nipples to comfort holds and shield placement.

9. Breastfeeding and Pumping Model

This specialty model supports teaching about breastfeeding and expressing milk. It’s designed to demonstrate hand expression, pump flange placement, and the transition between breast and bottle.

Application Tip

Use this model to role-play the pumping process, showing correct placement and techniques to maximize comfort and milk output.

Elevate Parent Education With Effective Breastfeeding Models

Building parent confidence in breastfeeding requires clear instruction, relevant practice, and supportive feedback. A well-stocked library of breastfeeding models makes interactive education possible, giving parents and healthcare staff the knowledge and skills to overcome common challenges. These breastfeeding models can bridge experience gaps, promote understanding, and support positive outcomes.

If you want to expand your teaching toolkit, explore the comprehensive range of breastfeeding models available at Cascade Health Care. Our durable, anatomically accurate products support every aspect of lactation education—from basic latching to troubleshooting special situations.