Abstract: The dressing for heavily exuding wounds comprises a hydrophilic foam having an absorptive capacity of at least 10 times its own weight, such as a hydrophilic polyether polyurethane foam material derived from a foamable composition comprising a polyol component containing ethylene oxide groupings. For use on bleeding wounds and/or to improve the absorptive capacity of the foam itself, the foam may be impregnated with alginate, which acts both as a haemostat and as an absorption improver. The dressing may include a backing layer which provides a barrier to microorganisms.