Many women find them to be quite adequate. Please use the directions that come with your pump. Avoid applying too much suction because sore nipples may result. Some hand pump instructions suggest moistening the pump part that comes in contact with your breast to gain better suction. If you do this, be sure none of the water runs into the bottle, which could dilute the milk.
Milk can flow back into the bulb, which is difficult to clean properly.
Pumping Many hospitals have electric pumps available for nursing mothers to use, when the baby is hospitalized. Mothers who use electric pumps while at the hospital often find it quite tedious to use any other method away from the hospital. Electric pumps can be rented from a lactation consultant or other commercial business. There is also a one-time charge for a personal pump collection kit. Please call the MMBA if you want the names of other pump rental agencies.