Abstract: A hydrophilic polyurethane foam for use in a catamenial device such as a tampon is disclosed which can be compressed to less than about 50 percent of its original dry volume, stored in such condition for an extended period of time, and later rapidly re-expanded to at least its dry volume. Prior to compression, the foam is impregnated with a solid inorganic release agent, which is located within the cells of the foam and maintains the separation of the cell walls. Adherence of contiguous cell walls is prevented and the rapid re-expansion of the foam upon contact with moisture or water is thereby facilitated.

Abstract: A catamenial device such as a tampon which comprises a segment of a rapidly reexpandable hydrophilic polymeric foam held in compression to less than 50 percent of its original dry volume and a constraining means holding said segment in compression which is adapted to provide lubrication for insertion of said segment into an animal's body cavity and to thereafter rapidly disintegrate, wherein said constraining means comprises a capsule possessing a plurality of perforations distributed about its surface to hasten disintegration. The devices of the present invention may be stored over an extended period of time without the difficulty of premature escape of the segment from the capsule.

Abstract: A catamenial device such as a tampon which comprises a segment of a rapidly re-expandable hydrophilic polymeric foam held in compression to less than 50 percent of its original dry volume and a constraining means holding said segment in compression which is adapted to provide lubrication for insertion of said segment into an animal's body cavity and to thereafter rapidly disintegrate, wherein said constraining means comprises a capsule prepared from a water-soluble alkylene oxide polymer such as poly (ethylene oxide). The devices of the present invention exhibit surprising lubricity and shelf-life, and are economically prepared.

Abstract: A monolithic sanitary device comprising a generally arcuate, boat-shaped structure prepared from a hydrophilic, highly absorbent, polymeric foam material which has been rendered fluid-impervious on one side thereof by a coating of an organic polymeric latex material. The device dispenses with the need of elaborate barrier layers, the various facing and backing sheets, as the foam material possess a texture which is acceptable to living tissue and the fluid-impervious latex coating prevents undesirable strike-through and assists in maintaining the structural integrity of the device.

Abstract: A hygienic douche apparatus including a nozzle for insertion into a vaginal passage and a cooperating fluid holding container are provided. The container includes a separate compartment therein to hold a compound which is soluble in a fluid such as water and, when dissolved, forms a hygienic douching fluid. The compound includes an ingredient which reacts with water to evolve a gas to pressurize the container and dispel the hygienic douching fluid through the nozzle. The compartment includes means operable from outside the container to initiate contact between the liquid and the compound. The apparatus is also adaptable to be used with an enema-type nozzle to provide a convenient readily dispensible enema and with a bidet nozzle to provide a convenient bidet apparatus.