Abstract: A package enclosing a single disposable absorbent article. The single disposable absorbent article is in a compact configuration and situated within the package.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article which is compactly packaged is provided, which has a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. A ratio between the folded configuration and the unfolded configuration is less than 0.09.

Abstract: An absorbent article has an anterior region, a posterior region and a central region interconnecting the anterior and posterior regions and extending longitudinally therebetween. An elastic component extends generally continuously along a path from the anterior region of the article through the central region to the posterior region thereof. The elastic component has an elastic tension which is substantially non-uniform along the path defined by the elastic component. In one method for making such an absorbent article, an elastic component is initially secured to the article along the path and defines a width thereof. At least a portion of the elastic component is then removed from the article to narrow the width of the path defined by the elastic component along at least a segment of the path to thereby provide an elastic tension gradient along the length of the path.