Abstract: A catamenial napkin conforming to the female body shape may be secured to the wearer without a supporting belt. The napkin has a backing formed from an impermeable plastic-like material. The longitudinal ends of the napkin have non-irritating adhesive strips that may attach the napkin to the body. The sanitary napkin has at least two layers of absorptive material separated by a perforated layer of otherwise impermeable material. The outer layer of absorptive material is covered by a non-irritating gauze. The napkin is completely filled with absorptive material to each longitudinal end, and is held together by non-irritating adhesive strips along each longitudinal edge.