Abstract: An absorbent article such as a sanitary napkin having a liquid distribution strip that provides improved distribution or wicking of liquid exudates. The absorbent article comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, a liquid absorbent pad and a liquid distribution strip. The absorbent pad is positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The liquid distribution strip is positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent pad. The liquid distribution strip comprises a nonwoven web which has a screen pattern having high fiber density portions with reduced spacing between the fibers and/or an embossed pattern having a highly compressed portion. The high fiber density portion of the screen pattern is oriented primarily to the longitudinal ends of the absorbent pad so as to distribute the liquid exuded to the longitudinal ends.