Abstract: A composite liquid-retentive substrate for a hygiene article comprises a base layer of first liquid-absorptive material. The base layer having a posterior end and a diametrically opposed anterior end interconnected by an intermediate tapered region. The posterior end has opposing posterior corners and the anterior end has opposing anterior corners. A posterior liquid-flow abutment comprising second absorptive material is disposed substantially around a perimeter of the posterior end. At least one anterior liquid-flow abutment comprising second absorptive material is disposed proximate one of the anterior corners of the anterior end.