Abstract: A leak resistant tampon system for increasing absorbency capacity and reducing leakage about a tampon device. The leak resistant tampon system includes a housing member having a front end and a front opening, a front collecting reservoir fluidly connected to the front opening, and a volume of highly absorbent material throughout but particularly within the housing member fluidly connected to the front collecting reservoir. The absorbent material preferably has a porous fluid permeable central channel within for increasing the overall absorption capabilities and capacity of the absorbent material. A plurality of annular ribs and concave grooves may extend from the outer surface of the housing member for creating a seal increasing absorbency surface area and efficiency when positioned within the vagina.

Abstract: A tampon, particularly for feminine hygiene, includes an absorbent body and a variably perforated or apertured cover. The absorbent body has an introduction end, a withdrawal end, and a longitudinal main portion therebetween. The cover includes a fluid-impervious plastic material in the form of a resilient three-dimensional web having a multiplicity of perforations. The perforations are varied over the length of the tampon so that a differentiated expansion of the tampon while absorbing fluid is achievable. Preferably, the degree of perforations of the cover increases towards the withdrawal end of the tampon at least over a portion of its length.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an absorbent interlabial device. The absorbent interlabial device has a body contacting surface, a garment facing surface opposing the body contacting surface, an interior region, and a periphery region which surrounds the interior region. The body contacting surface is liquid permeable. The absorbent interlabial device comprises an absorbent member disposed between the garment facing surface and the body contacting surface. The absorbent member has a body facing surface and a garment facing surface opposing the body facing surface. The absorbent interlabial device has a convex portion on the body contacting surface in the interior region, and a concave portion on the garment facing surface in the interior region. The convex portion and the concave portion are formed in a face-to-face relationship. The invention is also directed to a method for making such an absorbent interlabial device.

Abstract: A tampon showing improved leakage protection through improved expansion characteristics is disclosed. The tampons disclosed demonstrate these improved expansion characteristics particularly in the width dimension without introducing new drawbacks. Preferred tampons are described which are compressed to an initial size comparable to current tampons, but which expand to a width exceeding that achieved by current tampons. Such increased expansion is preferably accomplished without an increase in the total absorbency of the tampon. Tampons of various absorbencies are disclosed having increased total expansion in the width direction compared to current tampons. Additionally, tampons of various absorbencies which expand to a greater degree in the width direction under pressure are also disclosed. Tampons of various absorbencies which expand at a rate exceeding that achieved previously are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for securing the removal element of a catamenial device, i.e. the withdrawal string of a tampon, to a surface, and more specifically to an undergarment or bathing suit, is provided. Generally, the withdrawal string is secured to a surface to prevent undesirable projection of the withdrawal string outside, for example, a bathing suit when the user is at a beach or pool. Further, the withdrawal string is secured to a surface during use of the tampon to prevent fluids from coating the withdrawal string, thereby improving sanitary use of a tampon. The system comprises an adhesive element that occurs along the removal element such that the removal element is secured when pressed against a surface. The adhesive element comprises at least one adhesive tab attached to a withdrawal string, and in another form an adhesive coating over at least a portion of a withdrawal string.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tampon that is impregnated with a means which is water-repellent as well as infection inhibitory. Said tampon is thus particularly useful for swimming and bathing. Washing-out of the infection inhibitory component is prevented by using an impregnation means combined of a half-solid or solid support with an infection inhibitory means based on plant oils which act accordingly. The inventive tampon is thus useful for long-term application in water.

Abstract: This invention discloses digital tampons comprising a substantially cylindrical mass of compressed fibers, the tampons having a fibrous core substantially surrounding the central axis of the tampons and an uneven number of 7 or 9 ribs which extend radially outwards from the core.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon having a plurality of pledget segments with each segment having one or more layers of absorbent material and one or more layers of semipermeable material. The one or more semipermeable layers of each segment forms an absorption restriction boundary to the next adjacent segment that allows each segment to absorb and expand independently from the other segments. The plurality of pledget segments can be positioned in a coverstock bag.

Abstract: A disposable device for transferring an active liquid into a body cavity has sufficient intrinsic consistency for being inserted by being thrust into the cavity. The device includes a central element, that is the source of at least part of the active liquid. The central element is preferably formed from a capsule having a wall that forms a detachable appendage. A peripheral element is arranged around the central element. The peripheral element may be a pad arranged to collect and absorb active liquid delivered into the body cavity by expanding and thereby being urged to press sealingly against mucous membrane of the body cavity.

Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member. The primary absorbent member is preferably compressed to a degree greater than the secondary absorbent material.

Abstract: A designer tampon applicator, plunger and withdrawal string is disclosed. The disclosed invention decreases the embarrassment and removes the stigma of menstruation by converting a feminine hygiene product requiring maximum discretion into a high-fashion accessory suitable for public display and personal or intimate adornment. The disclosed invention also allows use of a larger tampon pledget providing greater absorption of and a more effective barrier to menstrual flow. Furthermore, the designer withdrawal string provides a highly visible reminder a tampon is in place and very effective means of removing the tampon.

Abstract: Shaped tampons having varying volumes are provided. A tampon which is formed into a self-sustaining shape has an outer surface, which is substantially serpentine. The tampon also has continually changing volume. The shaped tampons may also have varying average fiber density regions. The shaped tampons may be wrapped in tightly conforming wrappers which optionally aid in maintaining the self-sustaining shape prior to use. Optionally, the shaped tampons may utilize tampon applicators which enable a user to visually see the shape of the tampon prior to use.

Abstract: Shaped tampons having varying perimeters are provided. Tampons disclosed comprise a mass of absorbent material formed into a self-sustaining shape comprising an insertion end, a withdrawal end, and a center region. The center region has at least one perimeter which is less than a largest insertion end perimeter and is less than a withdrawal end perimeter. The shaped tampons may also have varying average fiber density regions. The shaped tampons may be wrapped in tightly conforming wrappers which optionally aid in maintaining the self-sustaining shape prior to use. Optionally, the shaped tampons may utilize tampon applicators which enable a user to visually see the shape of the tampon prior to use.

Abstract: A tampon comprising an elongated absorptive area and an elongated element within the absorptive area which is expandable on insertion of air. This increases the comfort at the interface of the tampon with the vagina walls. Optionally, a plurality of nonabsorptive elements are located on the outside surface of the tampon material, the nonabsorptive elements causing a spacing between the absorptive elements and vagina wall.

Abstract: A transvaginal drug delivery system comprising: (a) a deposition comprising an effective amount of said drug and, optionally, a wetting agent; and (b) a polymeric support on which said deposition is deposited. Also disclosed is a catamenial tampon for insertion in a human vagina comprising: (a) an inner core comprising an absorbent material; (b) an outer layer comprising a liquid-permeable material; and (c) a delivery system according to the invention. A method of transvaginal drug delivery is also described.

Abstract: A tampon showing improved leakage protection through improved expansion characteristics is disclosed. The tampons disclosed demonstrate these improved expansion characteristics particularly in the width dimension without introducing new drawbacks. Preferred tampons are described which are compressed to an initial size comparable to current tampons, but which expand to a width exceeding that achieved by current tampons. Such increased expansion is preferably accomplished without an increase in the total absorbency of the tampon. Tampons of various absorbencies are disclosed having increased total expansion in the width direction compared to current tampons. Additionally, tampons of various absorbencies which expand to a greater degree in the width direction under pressure are also disclosed. Tampons of various absorbencies which expand at a rate exceeding that achieved previously are also disclosed.

Abstract: A tampon showing improved leakage protection through improved expansion characteristics is disclosed. The tampons disclosed demonstrate these improved expansion characteristics particularly in the width dimension without introducing new drawbacks. Preferred tampons are described which are compressed to an initial size comparable to current tampons, but which expand to a width exceeding that achieved by current tampons. Such increased expansion is preferably accomplished without an increase in the total absorbency of the tampon. Tampons of various absorbencies are disclosed having increased total expansion in the width direction compared to current tampons. Additionally, tampons of various absorbencies which expand to a greater degree in the width direction under pressure are also disclosed. Tampons of various absorbencies which expand at a rate exceeding that achieved previously are also disclosed.

Abstract: A disposable device for transferring and/or circulating an active liquid into and/or inside an intracorporeal cavity is elongate along a reference axis, has an intrinsic axial consistency which is sufficient to allow the device to be introduced into the cavity by being pushed in axially. The device includes an expandable tampon made of at least one absorbent material, having a proximal portion and a distal portion, designed to collect and absorb said active liquid dispensed in the intracorporeal cavity and to expand and bear in a leak tight manner against mucous membrane of the intracorporeal cavity, and a source of liquid phase including a capsule, at least the proximal part of which is at least partially surrounded by the expandable tampon.

Abstract: A tampon showing improved leakage protection through improved expansion characteristics is disclosed. The tampons disclosed demonstrate these improved expansion characteristics particularly in the width dimension without introducing new drawbacks. Preferred tampons are described which are compressed to an initial size comparable to current tampons, but which expand to a width exceeding that achieved by current tampons. Such increased expansion is preferably accomplished without an increase in the total absorbency of the tampon. Tampons of various absorbencies are disclosed having increased total expansion in the width direction compared to current tampons. Additionally, tampons of various absorbencies which expand to a greater degree in the width direction under pressure are also disclosed. Tampons of various absorbencies which expand at a rate exceeding that achieved previously are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tampon having an absorbent structure and a multilayered cover substantially enclosing the absorbent structure. The cover has an outer layer capable of retaining liquid and an inner layer disposed between the outer layer and the absorbent structure. The inner layer creates a controlled interruption of fluid flow between the outer layer and the absorbent structure. This interruption allows the outer layer retains sufficient liquid to minimize vaginal wall drying prior to saturation of the absorbent structure.

Abstract: Applicator for inserting an object such as a tampon into a natural orifice of the human body, comprising the said object inserted in a tubular outer and a plunger intended to expel the said object such as a tampon from the tubular outer. The applicator comprises a flexible sleeve fixed concentrically to the outer, folded initially between the distal end of this outer and the object such as a tampon, the length of the deployed sleeve corresponding substantially to that of the object. The flexible sleeve deploys around the object such as a tampon when the latter leaves the outer under the effect of the plunger.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fibrous absorbent structure that is wet stable and has large void volume with a density below the critical density of the fiber employed. In one embodiment, the fibrous absorbent uses open-celled foam technologies to keep the fibrous structure expanded and bonded. In other embodiments, the resulting fibrous structure resembles an open-celled polymeric foam, with fibers serving as struts stabilized by binder material. In another embodiment, the resulting fibrous structure is filled with hydrophilic open-celled foams with the cell size substantially smaller than the fibrous pores. Such a wet-stable, high void volume fibrous absorbent can be used in a disposable product intended for the absorption of fluid such as body fluid, including extensible absorbent articles.

Abstract: A hydrophilic, highly swellable hydrogel based on (co)polymerized monomers or based on graft (co)polymers and prepared by a) free-radically (co)polymerizing one-or more hydrophilic monomers or graft (co)polymerizing one or more hydrophilic monomers onto a grafting base, the average degree of neutralization of the acid-functional monomers being from 0 to 40 mol %, b) comminuting the acidic hydrogel, c) neutralizing the acidic hydrogel to an ultimate degree of neutralization of 50-85 mol % by adding a neutralizing agent, d) drying, grinding and sieving the hydrogel particles characterized by a centrifuge retention and a vertical absorption swell height, each having a specified minimum.value, coupled with an extractables content having a specified maximum value or a centrifuge retention and a vertical absorption swell height, each having a specified minimum value and an extractables content having a specified maximum value.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the tampon including a tampon body having a distal end; and a dosage form affixed to the distal end of the tampon body, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent, and wherein the dosage form comprises a plurality of layers. Also, a method for manufacturing a medicated tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the method including manufacturing a tampon body having a distal end; producing a dosage form having a plurality of layers, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent; and affixing the dosage form to the distal end of the tampon body.

Abstract: High absorbency lyocell fibers are obtainable by hydrothermal treatment. The fibers can be treated with water at temperature of at least about 60° C. to provide lyocell fibers that can be formed into a random fibrous plug having a mass of 2 g, a density of 4 g/cm3, and a diameter of 25 mm which has a GAT Absorbency (at 15 min.) of at least about 3.7 g/g.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord. The mass of secondary absorbent material preferably has a lower total absorbency than the primary absorbent member. Preferably, the mass of secondary absorbent material is provided with a driving force to direct fluid toward the primary absorbent member.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the tampon including a tampon body that is manufactured at a first manufacturing facility; and a dosage form coupled to the body, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent, and wherein the dosage form is manufactured at a second manufacturing facility. Also, a method for producing a medicated tampon including manufacturing a tampon body at a first manufacturing facility; manufacturing a dosage form at a second manufacturing facility, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent; and coupling the dosage form to the tampon body.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon pledget that expands without the aid of moisture or menses. The tampon pledget has a plurality of high resiliency, non-absorbent materials and a plurality of absorbent materials. The tampon pledget has improved comfort as compared to conventional fully compressed tampon pledgets. The tampon pledget preferably has all of its non-absorbent and absorbent materials enclosed in a coverstock. The coverstock may be inverted or turned inside out, prior to filling the coverstock with a plurality of non-absorbent and absorbent materials.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon that comprises an absorbent pledget and a removal string having a menstrual fluid indicator associated therewith. The absorbent pledget has a proximal end that is placed near the cervical bone and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The indicator is formed on or in the removal string. Preferably, the indicator is formed over the entire length and circumference of the removal string. The indicator provides a sensory signal to the user when the capacity of the absorbent pledget of the tampon is exhausted, or when by-pass leakage is about to commence.

Abstract: An absorbent device having an absorbent structure substantially free of modified cellulosic fibers having carboxyalkyl substituted cellulosic regions and having at least one surface substantially covered by an outer layer, and an outer portion comprised of modified cellulosic fibers having modified cellulosic fibers having carboxyalkyl substituted cellulosic regions, wherein the outer portion forms a layer on the at least one surface of the absorbent portion.

Abstract: An intravaginal device having an overwrap containing an enclosed material, and a withdrawal string passing through a portion of the overwrap formed into a loop, the withdrawal string enabling a user to remove the intravaginal device after use.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin having a far-infrared functional component disposed between a lower bottom layer and a middle water-absorbent layer of the sanitary napkin is provided. The far-infrared functional component emits far-infrared rays that have direct far-infrared effects on a user's skin contacting with an upper surface layer of the sanitary napkin as well as on the user's lower belly close to the sanitary napkin. The sanitary napkin has therefore an additional value of being physiologically beneficial to users.

Abstract: A tampon applicator assembly and a method for placing a tampon within a vagina. The assembly includes an expandable tampon and a single piece applicator. The applicator assists in the proper placement of the tampon into the vagina. Once inside the vagina, the tampon expands to its expanded position, and absorbs body fluid.

Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene or medical purposes comprising a nonwoven cover having at least one, outwardly directed, smooth surface and substantially enclosing a liquid absorbing core wherein the nonwoven cover comprises at least partly thermoplastic, heat-sealable fibers and pressed to the final shape of the tampon. Before the tampon blank is covered with the nonwoven covering web, said web was subject to the use of heat and pressure during the manufacturing of the tampon as to smooth out at least the outer surface of the nonwoven covering web, whilst maintaining the structure of the nonwoven covering web and the absorbency of the tampon. Thereby, it is achieved that the tampon can also be more easily and more comfortably introduced into and withdrawn from a body cavity before and after the days of stronger menstruation or at the occurance of only less vaginal exudation as garment protection.

Abstract: An apertured film cover for an absorbent article is disclosed. The cover has an additive combination comprising a hydrophilic agent and a lyophilic agent applied thereto. The additive combination provides surprisingly improved fluid transfer across the cover. It can also provide a benefit by reducing frictional forces during the manufacture of a tampon.

Abstract: A catamenial device for blood leakage prevention composed of an inflatable member and an absorbent intravaginal member such as a tampon. The inflatable member houses a resiliently expandable inflation member generally made of open cell foam, and has an opening for airflow communication between the interior of the inflatable member and the outside environment. During insertion into a vaginal canal, the inflation member is inserted in a contracted state. Upon placement to proper vaginal location, the inflation member expands by resiliency drawing air from the ouside environment into the inflatable member via the opening in the inflatable member. Inflation of the inflatable member can be activated manually by the user or via an intravaginal applicator which has the dual function of inserting and delivering the device into the vagina and that of actuating the inflation of the inflatable member.

Abstract: An improved absorbent catamenial tampon having a non-aggressive fluid wicking overwrap, which aids in fluid acquisition while not aggressively adhering to tissue is presented. This tampon comprises a generally elongated absorbent member and an overwrap substantially covering the exterior surface of the generally elongated absorbent member, wherein the overwrap is fluid wicking and has an Agar Shear Force of no more than about 90 grams per inch of material width.

Abstract: An improved absorbent catamenial tampon having a non-aggressive fluid wicking overwrap, which aids in fluid acquisition while not aggressively adhering to tissue is disclosed.

Abstract: An improved absorbent catamenial tampon having increased leakage protection and ability to readily absorb fluid while not aggressively adhering to tissue. This is accomplished with a tampon comprising a compressed absorbent member comprising an absorbent material. The compressed absorbent member of the tampon has an inner region and an exterior surface. The fluid wicking overwrap substantially covers the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member, substantially permeates the inner region of the compressed absorbent member and extends beyond the withdrawal end to form a skirt portion. A method of making a tampon of the present invention is also disclosed.

Abstract: A multilayered apertured film wrapping element for an absorbent article is disclosed. At least one outer layer of the fluid-impervious plastic material has a continuous phase of a thermoplastic polymeric component and an immiscible, dispersed phase of a thermoplastic polymeric component having a lower melting point. The wrapping element is useful in applications involving heat sealing and similar thermal processes in absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, diapers, bandages, tampons, and the like.

Abstract: The invention concerns a disposable device (1) for transferring an active liquid into a body cavity (2), having sufficient intrinsic consistency for being inserted by being thrust into said cavity, said device comprising: a central element (3), at the source of at least part of the active liquid, a peripheral element (4) arranged around the central element, comprising a pad (5) arranged to collect and absorb the active liquid delivered into the body cavity, by expanding and thereby being urged to press sealingly against the mucous membrane of the body cavity (2). The central element (3) comprises a substrate relatively solid at room temperature outside the body cavity, and turning relatively liquid inside the body cavity, such that therein, said central element is liquefied at least partly to generate at least part of the active liquid.

Abstract: A urinary incontinence device for alleviating female urinary incontinence is disclosed. The device includes a resilient member and a non-absorbent positioned adjacent to the resilient member. The non-absorbent is constructed from a fibrous material. The resilient member and the non-absorbent are rolled into a softwind having a first end, a second end, a first end diameter and a second end diameter. The resilient member is located adjacent to the second end of the softwind such that the second end diameter is larger than the first end diameter. The softwind is radially compressed into a pledget having an initial diameter, an insertion end, a trailing end and a uniform cross-sectional area therebetween. The insertion end is capable of expanding radially outward about 1.2 to about 10 times the initial diameter and the resilient member is capable of providing a supportive backdrop for a woman's urethra when inserted into a woman's vagina.

Abstract: An individual package of a body fluid absorbent article can instantly take care of used body fluid absorbent article without staining fingers with a used substance disposing sheet immediately after opening the package upon changing the body fluid absorbent article. In the individual package of a body fluid absorbent article, a used substance disposing sheet to be used for wrapping a used absorbent body taken out from a user's body for disposal, is packed within the individual package together with the body fluid absorbent article. The package sheet is provided with a cutting portion for separating the packaging bag into bag fractions. A part of the used substance disposing sheet is fixed to one of the bag fractions.

Abstract: A process treats the surface of a polymeric tampon applicator so as to improve its whitening. The process applies electron beam energy to the applicator in sufficient magnitude and time duration to achieve the desired whitening.

Abstract: Disclosed is an individually packaged body fluid absorbent article including: a body fluid absorbent article including an absorbent body to be inserted into the vagina of a user; and a bag in which the body fluid absorbent article is individually packaged. Instructions for use of the body fluid absorbent article are indicated on the bag.

Abstract: Products comprise a plurality tampons of varied absorbent capacity, tailored to meet the needs of different segments of women based on their menstrual flow. Consumer product lines comprise different types of multi-packs tailored to meet the menstrual flow needs of different segments of women based on their menstrual flow. Modularized multi-packs are presented as a way to efficiently produce different multi-packs.

Abstract: A tampon formed of a substantially cylindrical mass of compressed fibers substantially enclosed in a fluid-permeable cover has improved ability to prevent early leakage. This tampon has a stability of at least about 15 N, and is capable of radially expanding upon exposure to a humid environment. The radius increases by at least about 10% after 15 minutes to 90% relative humidity at 40° C.

Abstract: Provided is a sanitary tampon including an absorbent wrapped by a liquid-pervious sheet. The absorbent is a mass of a plurality of compressed, small fiber agglomerations. At least the small fiber agglomerations located in the peripheral region of the absorbent are bonded to each other via hydrogen bonding therebetween.

Abstract: A lubricated tampon applicator having a sanitary wrapper. The applicator comprises a tubular body having a lubrication cell near its insertion end. The lubrication cell is scored to preferentially fail first at the interior cell membrane, and then the exterior cell membrane as the tampon is expelled from the applicator. The tampon has a lesser circumference about the leading portion than the trailing portion, thereof. In another embodiment the cell is a cage having a scored inner membrane and a leading surface of discrete petals. The cage is covered by an elastic membrane which is turned inward at the central axis and extends through an opening formed by the petals, flares radially outward, and seals against the inner membrane. The sanitary wrapper contains a portion for maintaining the applicator tip coated with lubricant. An adhesive bonds the wrapper to the applicator, effectively containing the lubricant.

Abstract: A pack insertion device for use with a cavity in the human body, such as a nose cavity, is provided that includes an introducer member and a liquid absorption assembly. The introducer member is preferably one piece that can have a body member with side walls that form a rectangular cross-section. Alternatively, the introducer member is a single unit that includes a main body section and a pivotal body section that holds the liquid absorption assembly when positioned for insertion into a nasal or sinus cavity. In this embodiment, the introducer member has side walls that have cut-out portions, an intermediate wall that functions as a floor, and an elongated opening opposite the intermediate wall. In yet a further embodiment, the introducer member includes a single body having tapered side walls, an intermediate wall and an elongated opening opposite the intermediate wall. The liquid absorption assembly includes an absorbent member having a rectangular cross-section.