Abstract: A pessary device having a top, a base, a length, a longitudinal axis, and a hollow interior. The pessary device has a hollow interior containing a protuberance.

Abstract: An intravaginal device having an aperture and a withdrawal assembly. The withdrawal assembly has a withdrawal member and an obstruction.

Abstract: This application relates to a method of covering a pessary device for relief of female incontinence with an overwrap. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods of conforming the overwrap to the pessary device.

Abstract: This application relates to a method of covering a pessary device for relief of female incontinence with an overwrap. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods of overwrapping the pessary device.

Abstract: This application relates to a pessary device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of attaching a withdrawal member to a pessary device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for activating colorant in selected regions of an article in which the colorant is incorporated are described. The colorant activation can create various desired visual aspects.

Abstract: A tampon including a compressed pledget of absorbent material. The tampon has a body portion and a longitudinal axis, wherein the tampon includes at least one patterned impression with one or more design elements oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one design element is formed by contact with at least one corresponding pattern including at least one lead in portion. An apparatus for making the tampon is also disclosed.

Abstract: A tampon including a compressed pledget of absorbent material. The tampon has a body portion and a longitudinal axis, wherein the tampon includes at least one patterned impression with one or more design elements oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one design element is formed by contact with at least one corresponding pattern including at least one lead in portion. A method and apparatus for making the tampon are also disclosed.

Abstract: A tampon including a compressed pledget of absorbent material. The tampon has a body portion and a longitudinal axis, wherein the tampon includes at least one patterned impression with one or more design elements oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one design element is formed by contact with at least one corresponding pattern including at least one lead in portion. A method and apparatus for making the tampon are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for providing stabilized compressed tampon pledgets. The process includes the steps of providing a compressed tampon pledget and forcing gas through the compressed absorbent pledget. In some embodiments, the process may occur in the presence of moisture, the moisture required comes from either the fibers of the material that comprises the tampon pledget and/or from the humidified gas that is introduced. The process may include the steps of heating and/or humidifying the gas introduced during the process. The gas may be forced through the compressed tampon pledget intermittently during the process. The tampon pledget may be maintained within a permeable mold during the process.