Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene, having an insertion end, a recovery end, a recovery tape, and a longitudinal axis. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material and has an outer surface that is at least partially provided with spirally shaped, pressed longitudinal grooves. The grooves define spirally shaped longitudinal ribs. Also disclosed is a method for producing the tampon.

Abstract: The absorbent structure of the invention has a substantially continuous absorbent web having an absorbent layer and a transfer layer. The transfer layer includes a nonabsorbent material and is capable of transferring liquids which it receives to the absorbent layer. The first and second edges of the absorbent web are coiled to form side walls, and the side walls form a trough therebetween. The top, trough-containing surface provides a natural trough in the space between the side walls for receiving and holding large gushes of body fluid until they can be absorbed by or dispersed into the rest of the structure.