Abstract: The present invention relates an arrangement and a process for making the arrangement that comprises a tampon, an applicator unit, and a uniformly shaped film cap. The tampon has a withdrawal end opposed to an insertion end, the insertion end having a top portion. The applicator unit contains at least a portion of a tampon and has a bottom side opposed to a topside. The film cap is uniformly shaped and covers at least a portion of the top portion of the tampon and attaches to at least a portion of the applicator unit. The arrangement is obtainable by a process comprising the steps of attaching the planar film to the applicator and shaping and or stretching the planar film to create a film cap.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tampon applicator arrangement, having tampon, applicator unit and a film cap, attached thereto, which is at least partially uniformly shaped, typically being conforming to part or all of the tampon or applicator unit, or such that the film cap has the lowest possible surface area. The film cap is so shaped and/or generally under tension and has no rugosites, folds or even wrinkles, other than optionally tension wrinkles, and preferably also no seams or welds. The invention also relates to specific moulding processes for making the film cap and the arrangement of the invention. The arrangements of the invention provide a smoother, easier and safer insertion of a tampon in the body.

Abstract: An absorbent device for insertion into a vaginal cavity, the absorbent device having an absorbent body and an indicator structure arranged and configured within the absorbent body, the indicator structure having a resilient member maintained in a strained configuration by a restraint; wherein the resilient member is capable of reverting to a relaxed configuration upon the weakening of the restraint and the restraint weakens upon exposure to moisture.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon that comprises an absorbent pledget and a menstrual fluid indicator associated therewith. The absorbent pledget has a proximal end that is placed near the cervical bone and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The indicator is preferably an additional layer formed and in contact with the entire circumference of the absorbent pledget, and is located near the distal end. The indicator is designed to provide a sensory signal to the user that the capacity of the absorbent pledget of the tampon is exhausted, or just before by-pass leakage commences.

Abstract: An absorbent device for insertion into a vaginal cavity, the absorbent device having an absorbent body; and an indicator structure arranged and configured within the absorbent body, the indicator structure having a resilient member having a first arm having a rough surface and a second arm, the first and second arms being maintained in a strained configuration by a restraint; wherein the restraint weakens upon exposure to moisture and the resilient member is capable of articulating to a relaxed configuration upon the weakening of the restraint in a movement in which the rough surface of the first arm traverses the second arm to generate vibration discernible to the user.

Abstract: An applicator device for inserting an object into a mammalian body cavity includes a tubular member having a rim disposed at one end thereof. The rim has a shoulder projecting outwardly from the tubular member and a return margin directed inwardly from the shoulder distal the tubular member. The invention is especially useful in manufacturing paperboard applicators, such as tampon applicators.

Abstract: A designer tampon applicator, plunger and withdrawal string is disclosed. The disclosed invention decreases the embarrassment and removes the stigma of menstruation by converting a feminine hygiene product requiring maximum discretion into a high-fashion accessory suitable for public display and personal or intimate adornment. The disclosed invention also allows use of a larger tampon pledget providing greater absorption of and a more effective barrier to menstrual flow. Furthermore, the designer withdrawal string provides a highly visible reminder a tampon is in place and very effective means of removing the tampon.

Abstract: The invention relates to an antiseptic tampon and a method of preparing it, which method consists of introducing metered quantities of a liquid mixture of antiseptic product and hydrophobic excipient into individual sheaths (14) for packaging tampons, then introducing standard tampons (22) into said sheaths (14) so that their lower ends are immersed in the mixture of antiseptic product and excipient, and then closing and sealing said sheaths (14).

Abstract: Absorbent pad assemblies and articles are provided wherein absorbent pad materials are adjacently disposed relative to each other and have an edge surface angularly orientated relative to the longitudinal axis thereof.

Abstract: An individual package in combination with a hygienic device has a body comprising walls which surround and contain the device within the body; a rupturable seal line running along the axis of at least one side of the body, and an opening member situated on the seal line and extending outward from the body. The hygienic device is positioned within the package. The hygienic device is readily retrievable from the package such that a user neither touches nor contaminates the absorbent portion of the hygienic device with any part of her hand prior to the use and in using the hygienic device. Tampons, interlabial devices, swabs, and bandages are thereby afforded means for sterile usage and subsequent hygienic disposal.

Abstract: A portable nasal, mucus removing device includes a case having an internal empty space for receiving parts, and a motor placed within the case and rotated by receipt of driving power from a battery. A power transmission unit is connected to the motor to convert the rotating movement of the motor into a reciprocating movement. A vacuum generator is connected to the power transmission unit to generate a vacuum pressure by introducing an external air or discharging the introduced air. A storage tank is connected to the case from the outside such that the storage tank can be separated from the case. The storage tank air-communicates with the vacuum generator via an air-introducing tube. An entrance tube is externally combined with the storage tank to introduce a nasal mucus. A guide tube is attached to an inner wall of the storage tank to guide the introduced nasal mucus into the storage tank.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a tampon for feminine hygiene, having an insertion end, a recovery end (34), a recovery tape (35) and a longitudinal axis. The tampon (30) is made of compressed fibrous material having an outer surface. The outer surface of the tampon (30) is at least partially provided with spirally shaped, pressed longitudinal grooves (42) which define sprially shaped longitudinal ribs. The tampon (30) is preferably compressed radially with respect to its longitudinal axis. The tampon can have an essentially uniform density over its cross-section, or it can have a core of highly compressed fibrous material from which core longitudinal ribs extend radially outward. Furthermore, the invention is related to a method and operated for producing said tampon.

Abstract: An absorbent tampon has improved ease of insertion into and removal from a body cavity. This is accomplished by covering at least a portion of the outer surface of the tampon with an apertured polymeric formed film. The apertured formed film provides a smooth land area on the outermost surface of the tampon for gentle, nondrying passage along the vaginal walls. The apertures in the film allow fluid to pass through the cover and into the absorbent core, where the fluid is held to prevent leakage.

Abstract: An absorbent tampon has improved ease of insertion into and removal from a body cavity. This is accomplished by covering at least a portion of the outer surface of the tampon with an apertured polymeric formed film. The apertured formed film provides a smooth land area on the outermost surface of the tampon for gentle, nondrying passage along the vaginal walls. The apertures in the film allow fluid to pass through the cover and into the absorbent core, where the fluid is held to prevent leakage.

Abstract: Catamenial tampons having particularly desired expansion force characteristics are shown. The tampons comprise a mass of absorbent material which is fluid expanding. The tampons exert an X Dimension Force of at least about 400 grams, and a Z Dimension Force of less than about 200 grams. Alternatively, the ratio of the X Dimension Force to the Z Dimension Force is from about 10 to about 50.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel process of making N-isopropyl acrylamide (NiPAm) polymers based upon the reaction of poly(acrylic acid) and N-isopropylamine. The disclosed method of the present invention uses polyacrylic acid as a starting material to synthesize NiPAm polymers. In one embodiment, the present invention discloses a condensation reaction of an intermediate salt to form homopolymers, copolymers and terpolymers of N-isopropyl acrylamide (NiPAm) with acrylic acid and/or alkyl acrylates in a molten state, which is adaptable to a continuous reactive extrusion process. Binder compositions, water-dispersible products and thermoformable articles containing the NiPAm polymers are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pre-expanded tampon pledget formed from cellulosic absorbent fibers. The fibers are not tightly compressed, thus, the pledget has a reduced fiber density. As a result, a softer, more pliable pledget is formed that not only increases user comfort during use, but also affords a user with comparable and/or increased leakage protection over conventional tampons or tampon pledgets.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for administering an agent (for example delivering a drug or diagnostic agent) intravaginally or to the interlabial space by positioning an interlabial device, such as an absorbent pad, between the labia. The pad is retained between the labia for a sufficient period of time to deliver an active agent, or allow a reaction with a diagnostic agent. Alternatively, the pad is applied after medication is administered, for example intravaginally or labially or perilabially, to help reduce discomfort to the subject, or loss of medication. The active agent may be carried by the pad itself, or in an intravaginal extension of the pad, or separately in a suppository or other dosage form. In particular examples, the pad has a smaller minor portion superimposed on a larger major portion, and the smaller minor portion is inserted as a leading edge between the labia of the subject to facilitate interlabial insertion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent devices such as sanitary napkins, pantiliners, interlabial devices, and incontinence devices. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to an improved absorbent device that is insertable into the interlabial space of a female wearer for catamenial purposes (including menses and mid-cycle discharges), incontinence protection (including urine), or both. The absorbent interlabial device has at least on body-contacting surface and a backsheet having an integral protrusion formed therein of sufficient dimensions to aid in insertion into the interlabial space. An apparatus for forming the integral protrusion in the backsheet is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a female forming member having an opening therein, and a compression member having and opening therethough in operative aligned relationship with the opening of the female forming member.

Abstract: A catamenial tampon in the form of a soft, conformable, hollow bag which is disclosed. The tampon is capable of being inserted digitally or through the use of a unique applicator. The tampon preferably comprises a removal string, which can be attached to the inside or outside surface of the tampon. In one embodiment, the removal string is attached to the inside surface of the tampon, adjacent to the head of the tampon to facilitate inversion of the tampon upon removal. The tampon may have a cross section in which two of its sides are pleated, allowing the sides of the tampon to expand laterally. The tampon may be provided with a plurality of pleats disposed around its cross-section that are capable of opening in any desired direction. The outside surface of the tampon may be smooth, or it can be textured. In a textured embodiment, the tampon may have an outside surface which comprises microfibrils or other texturing elements extending outwardly therefrom.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon that comprises an absorbent pledget and a menstrual fluid indicator associated therewith. The absorbent pledget has a proximal end that is placed near the cervical bone and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The indicator is preferably an additional layer formed and in contact with the entire circumference of the absorbent pledget, and is located near the distal end. The indicator is designed to provide a sensory signal to the user that the capacity of the absorbent pledget of the tampon is exhausted, or just before by-pass leakage commences.

Abstract: A withdrawal string for use with an absorbent pledget. The withdrawal string is affixed to an absorbent pledget which is insertable into a body cavity. The withdrawal string is a multifilamentous twine having a fixed end attached to the pledget and a free end. The multiple filaments comprising the withdrawal string are preferably hydrophobic and intertwined. At least one barrier portion is disposed between the free end and the fixed end of the withdrawal string. The purpose of the barrier portion is impede diffusion of autogenous and exogenous material, such as blood cells, bacteria and viruses, between the free end and the fixed end of the string when the string is wetted thereby reducing or eliminating material transport along the string.

Abstract: An absorbent interlabial device worn by female wearers for catamenial purposes, incontinence protection, or both, is disclosed. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention includes a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the two. The length of the device is between about 60 mm and about 130 mm. The width is between about 25 mm and 50 mm. The device has an axis of preferred bending along its longitudinal centerline. When folded along the axis and inserted into the wearer's interlabial space, the topsheet maintains contact with the walls of the wearer's labia. A method of using a system of feminine hygiene products is also disclosed. The system includes the use of an absorbent interlabial device in combination with a sanitary napkin. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention may also be used in combination with an absorbent tampon.

Abstract: A sanitary device for the absorption of light anal and vaginal/urethral discharges and a method for its use and disposal. The device includes a towelette and an attached string. The towelette is a thin, soft, dry, flexible sheet of absorbent paper material permeable to gas, absorbent of small amounts of moisture, and folded lengthwise into a pair of wings. The string is also soft and flexible and has ends attached to the towelette inside the wings and providing a relatively short outwardly extending loop. For anal use, the device is inserted between the buttocks and pinched and held by the sphincter muscle at the exit of the anal canal. For vaginal/urethral use, the device is inserted and frictionally held between the labial folds at the exit of the vagina. In either use, the loop of the string extends outwardly from the body and is accessible for convenient grasp by the wearer.

Abstract: The feminine sanitary protection package and method provide a vaginal insertion device and a panty shield configured to fit the pudendal region of a woman. The panty shield is tri-folded over the vaginal insertion device. A pouch contains the combination including the panty shield and the vaginal insertion device. The pouch provides for transporting and disposing of the panty shield and vaginal insertion device.

Abstract: A formulation effective in reducing the pH in a menstruating vagina or in a tampon inserted therein to below pH 5.5, comprising (a) 3-80% by weight of a solid organic acid polymer; (b) 92-15% by weight of a solid organic acid, and (c) 5-30% of a wetting agent. Also disclosed is a delivery system for releasing an active agent comprising: (a) a deposition comprising the active agent; and (b) a polymeric support on which the deposition is deposited, The delivery system is especially useful in a catamenial tampon for insertion in a human vagina which comprises (a) an inner core comprising an absorbent material; (b) an outer layer comprising a liquid permeable material; and (c) the delivery system.

Abstract: Individual packages for absorbent article that are flushable and water dispersible are disclosed. The flushable individual wrapper for an absorbent personal hygiene device comprises at least one of the following materials a tissue; a collagen film; a water dispersible thermoplastic film; and a nonwoven material. The individual wrapper can be made of a laminate material selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic films and tissues; collagen films and tissues; thermoplastic films and nonwoven materials; and collagen films and thermoplastic films. In several embodiments, the absorbent article and the wrapper for the absorbent article are both flushable separately or in combination, and when flushed, the wrapper or the combination of the absorbent product and the wrapper will clear the toilet.

Abstract: A vaginal tampon contains living lactic acid bacteria (lacto-bacteria) and/or auxiliary substances for treating or regenerating the vaginal flora. The lacto-bacteria and auxiliary substances are enclosed in an air- and water-tight manner between thin layers, which are at least partially dissolved only when the tampon is used. The vaginal tampon releases the lacto-bacteria and/or auxiliary substances.

Abstract: A catamenial tampon in the form of a soft, conformable, hollow bag which is disclosed. The tampon is capable of being inserted digitally or through the use of a unique applicator. The tampon preferably comprises a removal string, which can be attached to the inside or outside surface of the tampon. In one embodiment, the removal string is attached to the inside surface of the tampon, adjacent to the head of the tampon to facilitate inversion of the tampon upon removal. The tampon may have a cross-section in which two of its sides are pleated, allowing the sides of the tampon to expand laterally. The tampon may be provided with a plurality of pleats disposed around its cross-section that are capable of opening in any desired direction. The outside surface of the tampon may be smooth, or it can be textured. In a textured embodiment, the tampon may have an outside surface which comprises microfibrils or other texturing elements extending outwardly therefrom.

Abstract: Vaginal epithelium drying is substantially reduced or prevented by reducing the capillary suction pressure of a tampon in early use. This is accomplished by modifying the capillary suction pressure of the surface of the tampon by using hydrophobic components in the tampon, such as hydrophobic fibers and/or hydrophobic cover material. Other means of obtaining a lower capillary suction pressure include increasing the denier of the fibers in the tampon's absorbent core and/or decreasing the density of the tampon.

Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene or medical purposes comprising a nonwoven cover having at least one, outwardly directed, smooth surface and substantially enclosing a liquid absorbing core wherein the nonwoven cover comprises at least partly thermoplastic, heat-sealable fibers and pressed to the final shape of the tampon. Before the tampon blank is covered with the nonwoven covering web, said web was subject to the use of heat and pressure during the manufacturing of the tampon as to smooth out at least the outer surface of the nonwoven covering web, whilst maintaining the structure of the nonwoven covering web and the absorbency of the tampon. Thereby, it is achieved that the tampon can also be more easily and more comfortably introduced into and withdrawn from a body cavity before and after the days of stronger menstruation or at the occurance of only less vaginal exudation as garment protection.

Abstract: A tampon assembly that includes a moistened, anti-bacterial towelette attached thereto that was removable by the user and also ensured the user had a cleansing wipe for freshening up as desired. The towelette is enclosed in a sealed packet that is adhesively held to a tubular portion of the tampon insertion device with a releasable, non-residue leaving adhesive in a manner to provide a slim line shape easily carried and includes a grasping tab to ensure easy removal of the sealed packet when needed.

Abstract: The invention relates to drug delivery devices for insertion into the vagina, rectum or nasal cavity comprising a body, a layer of fluid-impermeable material on at least part of said body and one or more pharmaceutical agents disposed on the surface of the material remote from said body, wherein said body comprises absorbent material. The devices exploit the highly vascularised nature of the vaginal, nasal and rectal mucosal tissue to deliver pharmaceutical agents to localised areas and/or into underlying tissues.

Abstract: This invention is a tampon wetness detection system which includes a housing (70) having a distal end, a proximal end, the proximal end being shaped, and dimensioned for insertion into a distal end of an absorbent body (12) inserted into a vagina, and the proximal end of the housing being fluid permeable; a radio frequency identification device (16) being implemented in the housing, and the radio frequency device including a transmitter (18); a conductive wetness sensor (20) being in the proximal end of the housing, and in electrical communication with the radio frequency identification device such that when the conductive wetness sensor senses wetness the radio frequency identification device is operable; a remote reporting device including a receiver for receiving a radio signal concerning the wetness of the absorbent body from the radio frequency identification device, and further including a reporting mechanism for reporting a user of the wetness of the absorbent body.

Abstract: A tampon is provided with a permeable or soluble barrier layer interposed between an absorbent core and an overwrap, allowing substantially complete, uniform wetting to be obtained even under light flow conditions. The barrier prevents immediate flow of fluid into the core, allowing time for fluid to be carried by the overwrap around the outer surface of the tampon, prior to being drawn into the absorbent core.

Abstract: An accessory in the form of a tab, tassel or puff ball attached to a tampon string to facilitate the tactile location and manipulation of the tampon string during urination. The accessory may also help prevent the tampon string from being retracted into the vagina. Additional embodiments are illustrated along with a method for extending the tampon string with the accessory attachment having the capability of being adhered to the user's body or undergarment.

Abstract: A tampon having a relatively high density, compressed core (16) and a plurality of lower density longitudinal ribs (17) is disclosed. The longitudinal ribs (17) have a softer fiber structure and a coarser capillary structure and extend radially from the core (16). The longitudinal ribs (17) are separated one from another by outwardly open longitudinal grooves (18). A process for preparing the tampon and an apparatus useful in the process are also disclosed.

Abstract: An expandable bag catamenial tampon and spreading tampon applicators for such a tampon are disclosed. The catamenial tampon is in the form of a soft, conformable, hollow bag. The applicator is capable of inserting the tampon into the vaginal tract and spreading the tampon open within the vaginal cavity. The applicator has an applicator element with a leading end and a trailing end. The bag-like tampon is placed over the leading end of the applicator when the tampon is in a flaccid initial configuration which defines an initial width, and the applicator is used to spread the tampon to a greater deployed width. In one embodiment, the applicator comprises tube having an interior and a flexible material which has one end that is formed into a flexible and expandable loop. The flexible loop is slidably mounted within the tube. The flexible loop is contained inside the tube until it is desired to deploy the tampon.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method compresses a cylindrical blank into a tampon which is dimensionally stable and which is provided with a domed insertion end. A cylindrical blank is radially compressed and then introduced into a cylindrical axial compression chamber. The blank is then subjected to an extreme axial overcompression. The closed insertion end of the compression chamber has a bore formed therethrough. The bore is generally coaxial and is adapted to accept a reciprocating ejection ram having a ram surface facing into the chamber. When the ram is seated in the first position, the ram surface and the insertion end wall of the compression chamber together form a smooth doming surface. The bore periphery is of a smaller diameter than the chamber and hence radially spaced from the side walls of the chamber, and the ram has sufficient clearance to move through the chamber and eject the tampon without interference from the walls of the chamber.

Abstract: Individual packages to assist the hygienic insertion of an absorbent device into the interlabial space of a female user are disclosed. The individual package includes a wrapper for packaging the absorbent device. The wrapper provides a flexible sheet which is wrapped around the absorbent device. The wrapper being at least partially removable from around the absorbent device wherein at least a portion of the wrapper remains between a user's hands and the absorbent device when the absorbent device is inserted into the interlabial space to prevent the user's hands from contacting the absorbent device for hygienic insertion. The wrapper is folded about the absorbent device relative to the longitudinal axis of the lower portion forming a longitudinal fold, an opposing open end, and transverse side edges. The opposing open end and transverse side edges are sealed forming the individual package.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved tampon, particularly suited for use as a digital tampon, having a portion of fibers at a withdrawal end of the tampon displaced towards an insertion end, causing a fiber density in the vicinity of the withdrawal end to be lower than an average fiber density of the tampon. The tampon also includes an indentation in the withdrawal end. In combination, the lower fiber density of the withdrawal end and the indentation in the withdrawal end cause the withdrawal end to be soft and readily flareable. When the tampon is provided with an overwrap the indentation also allows excess overwrap at the withdrawal end to be tucked into the tampon, improving the aesthetic qualities of the tampon and facilitating digital insertion.

Abstract: A method for providing side-to-side coverage of a tampon within a female user's vaginal cavity is provided. By use of a tampon applicator designed to provide directional expulsion and suitable tampons for use in the tampon applicator, a female user may achieve side-to-side coverage of a tampon within her vaginal cavity. Such directional expulsion causes a suitable tampon to expand against the sides and/or walls of a female user's vaginal cavity.

Abstract: An absorbent interlabial device worn by female wearers for catamenial purposes, incontinence protection, or both, is disclosed. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention includes a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the two. The length of the device is between about 60 mm and about 130 mm. The width is between about 25 mm and 50 mm. The device has an axis of preferred bending along its longitudinal centerline. When folded along the axis and inserted into the wearer's interlabial space, the topsheet maintains contact with the walls of the wearer's labia. A method of using a system of feminine hygiene products is also disclosed. The system includes the use of an absorbent interlabial device in combination with a sanitary napkin. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention may also be used in combination with an absorbent tampon.

Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member, and is preferably substantially non-compress, and preferably of a smaller diameter than the primary absorbent member. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord.

Abstract: A tampon device including a medicinal liquid, such as a hemostatic agent solution, and useful for releasing the medicinal liquid into the vaginal cavity after insertion into the vaginal cavity.

Abstract: A catamenial device having a portion which faces and/or contacts the garment worn by the user wherein the catamenial device is colored to match the color of the garment worn directly over the device by the user of the device.

Abstract: A hemostatic device for sealing blood vessels, particularly for use in angioplasty comprises: (1) a barrel including: (a) a cylindrical portion; and (b) a terminal tapered portion, the terminal tapered portion being divided by at least one slot cut therein so that the tapered portion expands radially when force is applied to it; and (iii) an aperture at the narrow end of the terminal tapered portion; (b) a proteinaceous powder in the cylindrical portion of the barrel, the proteinaceous powder including at least one protein that promotes hemostasis in a blood vessel, the aperture in the terminal tapered portion being for flow of the proteinaceous powder; and (c) a plunger inserted into the barrel, the plunger including: (i) a narrow portion including therein means for guiding a guidewire; and (ii) a conical portion extending from the narrow portion so that, when the plunger is inserted into the barrel, the large end of the conical portion is located closest to the tapered portion of the barrel.

Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member, and is preferably substantially non-compress, and preferably of a smaller diameter than the primary absorbent member. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord.

Abstract: A suitable tampon with a tampon applicator for expelling the tampon to provide side-to-side coverage and inserting the tampon into a body cavity is provided. The tampon applicator has a tampon holder tube having interior and exterior surfaces, a longitudinal axis, a hollow portion and an expulsion end dimensioned for insertion into the body cavity. The tampon holder tube has a feature for separating and spreading a tampon apart during expulsion of the tampon. A plunger may also be telescopically and slidably mounted in the tampon holder tube distal to the expulsion end and adapted to directionally expel the tampon from the tampon holder tube when a user expels the tampon from the tampon holder tube.

Abstract: An interlabial absorbent structure is disclosed. The interlabial absorbent structure comprises a pair of absorbent panels that are sufficiently flexible such that the panels can, at least partially, conform to the walls of a wearer's interlabial space. The panels are joined by an isthmus which is positioned farthest into a wearer's interlabial space when the interlabial absorbent product is worn. Alternative embodiments of the isthmus are also described which direct bodily fluids that are deposited thereon along the longitudinal length of the interlabial absorbent structure.