Abstract: A sanitary napkin is provided which minimizes the probability of side staining or side leakage by using embossed channels which are located adjacent to the longitudinal edges of the napkin. These embossed channels are activated during use by the thighs, allowing the sides of the napkin to fold upwards during use, thus forming an occlusive container.

Abstract: An elastic leg disposable diaper is provided which, when worn, forms an absorbent pocket with planar sides in the crotch area. The pocket has flex regions in the crotch area of the diaper which define a bottom crotch profile and elastic edges which encircle the leg of the baby and semirigid absorbent-containing planar sides extending upward from the flex regions to the elastic edges. The diaper at its lowest profile in the crotch area is either planer or upwardly arcuate when the baby is standing. The stiffness of the sides is generally correlative of a Taber stiffness value of at least seven gm-cms for the absorbent material located thereon.