Abstract: An absorbent core for use in an absorbent article is disclosed which has a front pad comprising a two inch diameter circle having substantially as its center the insult point that is capable of absorbing 32 grams or more of an aqueous solution comprising 1.0 weight % sodium chloride after ten minutes of contact with the solution while under a constant restraining pressure of about 0.5 psi. The absorbent core provides improved protection against leakage in an absorbent article containing the core. A method of designing, optimizing, and predicting good leakage protection in an absorbent article is also disclosed.

Abstract: An absorbent garment having an absorbent core with zones of enhanced absorbency is described. The zones of enhanced absorbency are formed by selective transverse folding of the absorbent core material. Customization of positioning and configuration of the folds facilitates achieving a high distribution index value and accommodating specialized requirements of specific user groups such as male and female users for example.