MXPA99011920A - Absorbent interlabial device - Google Patents

Abstract

An absorbent interlabial device worn by female wearers for catamenial purposes, incontinence protection, or both, is disclosed. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention includes a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the two. The length of the device is between about 60 mm and about 130 mm. The width is between about 25 mm and 50 mm. The device has an axis of preferred bending along its longitudinal centerline. When folded along the axis and inserted into the wearer's interlabial space, the topsheet maintains contact with the walls of the wearer's labia. A method of using a system of feminine hygiene products is also disclosed. The system includes the use of an absorbent interlabial device in combination with a sanitary napkin. The absorbent interlabial device of the present invention may also be used in combination with an absorbent tampon. The absorbent interlabialdevice may be packaged in a common package with a sanitary napkin or a tampon as a feminine hygiene kit.

Description

INTERLABIAL ABSORBENT DEVICE ^ FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an absorbent device, and more particularly to an absorbent device that is interlabially worn by female users for catamenial purposes, protection against incontinence, or both. ~ AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION ~ All forms and varieties of absorbent articles configured for the absorption of bodily fluids such as menses, urine and faeces are well known. With respect to feminine protection devices, the technique has offered two basic types: sanitary napkins that have been developed for external use around the pudendal region while the tampons have been developed for internal use within the vaginal cavity for interruption of menstrual flow through them. These buffer devices are disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,412,833, entitled "Buffer Applicator", issued to Weigner et al. On November 1, 1983, and United States Patent No. 4,413,986 entitled "Assembly of Buffer with Means for Sterile Insertion ", issued to Jacobs on November 8, 1983. ^ Hybrid devices that aim to merge the structural characteristics of sanitary pads and tampons in a simple device have also been proposed. These hybrid devices are disclosed in the patent United States No. 2,092,346, entitled "Catamenial Pad" issued to Arone on September 7, 1937, and in United States Patent No. 3,905,372 entitled "Coat of Protection for Female Hygiene" issued to Denkinger on September 16. In 1975, other less invasive hybrid devices such as lip or interlabial sanitary napkins are known and are characterized by having a part that resides at least partially within the wearer's vestibule and a part that resides at least partially external to the vestibule of the wearer. user. These devices are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 2,662,527 entitled "Sanitary Pad", issued to Jacks on December 15, 1953, and in U.S. Patent No. 4,631,062, entitled "Sanitary Lip Pad". , issued to Lassen and others on December 23, 1986. Interlabial pads have the potential to provide even greater freedom of inconvenience because of their small size and reduced risk of leakage. In the past, numerous attempts have been made to produce an interlabial pad which would combine the best characteristics of tampons and sanitary napkins, while avoiding at least some of the disadvantages associated with each of these types of devices. Examples of these devices are described in US Pat. No. 2,917.0 * 49 issued to Delaney on December 15, "2 r ~ [1959, United States Patent No. 3'420,235 issued to Harmon on January 7, 1969, United States Patent No. 4 ^ 595,392, issued to Johnson et al. On July 17, 1986, and in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,074,855 and 5,3,336,20 issued to Rosenvluth et al. on December 24, 1991 and August 9, 1994, respectively, and in U.S. Patent No. 5,484,429 issued to Vukos et al. On January 16, 1996. A commercially available interlabial device is the "FREgH'N FIT PADETTE" (also referred to as "INSYNC" or "INSYNC MINIFORM") in commercial form by Athena Medical Corp. ( now known as A-Fem) of Portland, OR and which is disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,983,873 and 4,175,761, issued to Hirschman on October 5, 1976 and November 27, 1979 respectively. However, many of these devices have not found great commercial success. There are disadvantages associated with all of the above products. For example, the device described in the Delaney patent does not appear to be capable of easy and convenient insertion, due to the possibility that the layers of the absorbent material open during insertion. The commercially available interlabial PADETTE OR INSYNC device suffers from the advantages that many consumers find it difficult to insert properly and can cause some discomfort to consumers especially if it is inserted properly. Even when this device is inserted in an appropriate manner, it may tend to allow the flow to be diverted around its edges. Such a flow can cause spotting of the body or staining of the panties, which many consumers find unacceptable. Additionally, previously known interlabial devices such as the PADETTE interlabial pad may not reliably cover the urethra and / or the vaginal introitus during all movements of the body (eg, when the user bends over). These products may also not be reliably expelled when the user urinates. Therefore, a need exists for an improved interlabial device which will reduce the incidence of body spotting and panting when it is used. Such a device is easy to insert and be comfortable during use. A need exists for an interlabial device that also covers the walls of the wearer's lips throughout a range of body movements and reliably covers the vaginal introitus and preferably also the urethra during these movements. A need also exists for an improved absorbent interlabial device which can be used as part of a system for the protection of feminine hygiene or with a case for feminine hygiene. t BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to absorbent devices, and more particularly to an improved absorbent article that is capable of being inserted into the interlabial space of a female user for catamenial purposes, for the protection of incontinence, or both. The interlabial absorbent device of the present invention comprises a liquid-permeable upper sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet that is attached to the top sheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet. The length of the absorbent interlabial device is greater than about 60 meters and less than approximately 130 millimeters. The device width is i between approximately 25 and approximately 50 millimeters. The width and length of the device exceeds each its thickness. Additionally, the device comprises a preferred deflection axis, preferably located generally along the longitudinal central line i of the device. When the device is folded along this axis and inserted into the interlabial space of the user, the upper sheet maintains contact with the walls of the user's lips. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the device can be between about 90 and about 105 millimeters. Preferably, the liquid-permeable top sheet can be constructed of rayon or needle-punched rayon. The absorbent core can also be constructed of rayon, cotton, or a mixture of rayon and cotton. The backsheet of the interlabial absorbent device is preferably capable of dispersing in water. Preferably, the device comprises materials that they degrade biologically A tab can be attached to the backsheet of the device to facilitate insertion and optional removal of the device with the fingers. The present invention also relates to a method for using an absorbent interlabial device, such as the absorbent interlabial device described above, as part of a feminine hygiene products system. The method comprises the steps of inserting interlabial device into the interlabial space of the user, placing a towel, sanitary in the crotch portion and a panty-type undergarment, then pulling the undergarment towards its normal use position without removing the towel The sanitary napkin of the wearer and the interlabial device and the sanitary napkins are carried simultaneously. In the preferred methods of the present invention, the method may further include the steps of removing the interlabial device prior to the urination immediately, following the urination inserting a new interlabial device that is carried simultaneously with the sanitary napkin. Optionally, the interlabial device can be expelled by urination, then a second interlábial device can be inserted into the interlabial space of the wearer and be carried simultaneously with the sanitary napkin. And In another aspect of the present invention, the invention comprises a case for female hygiene. The case is composed of a sanitary towel and an absorbent interlabial device packaged in a common package. This case facilitates the use of a feminine hygiene product system such as in the method described above. The sanitary napkin and the interlabial device are each adapted so that they can be worn simultaneously Preferably, the absorbent interlabial device included in the kit has all the preferred characteristics of the absorbent interlabial device described above.

The interlabial absorbent device of the present invention can also be used as part of a feminine hygiene product system in conjunction with an absorbent tampon. This method comprises the steps of inserting a plug into the vaginal cavity of the wearer, inserting an interlabial absorbent device into the interlabial space of the wearer, and carrying the tampon and the absorbent interlabial device simultaneously for a period of time. The interlabial absorbent device used in such a method comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid permeabacksheet attached to the topsheet, and an absorbent core placed therebetween. Another case for female hygiene comprises the interlabial absorbent device of the present invention packaged within a common package with a vaginal absorbent tampon. The absorbent interlabial device comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impermeabacksheet attached to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned "between the topsheet and the backsheet.The absorbent interlabial device is adapted to be carried within the interlabial space of the user, wherein at least half of the device resides within said interlabial space, each of the vaginal absorbent tampon and the interlabial absorbent device being adapted in such a way that both can be brought simultaneously.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Although the description concludes with the claims pointing out from a particular point of view and claiming from a different matter the exposed matter that is considered as formant of the present invention, it is "believed that the invention will be better understood to Starting from the following description taken in combination with the accompanying drawings, in which: - Figure 1 is a plan view of the interlabial absorbent device of the present invention. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the interlayer absorbent device of the present invention, taken "along line 2-2 of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a side view of the interlabial absorbent device of the present invention. Figure 4 shows the interlabial absorbent device of the present invention folded along its preferred flexion axis and that is grasped for insertion by the user's fingers J Figure 5 is a sagittal cross-sectional view of a human female user showing the placement of the interlabial absorbent device in the interlabial space of the wearer. FIG. 6 is a typical sanitary napkin of the prior art that can be used in a method for using a feminine hygiene product system. or part part of a female protection case of the present invention Figure 7 is a typical tampon of the prior art which can Use a method for using a feminine hygiene product system or as part of an additional case for feminine protection of the present invention. JJ I Figure 8 is a front view of an individual package for the interlacial device in a non-open condition. _ = Figure 9 is a front view of the individual package in an open condition with the interlabial device bent inwardly. ~ Figure 10 is a plan view of an apparatus suitafor the ! i determination of the discharge capacity according to the method described in the TEST METHODS section below. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the discharge-capaapparatus of Figure 10, taken along line 11-11 thereof. : DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to an interlayer absorbent device. Figures 1 to 3 show an embodiment of an interlabial absorbent device, interlabial device 20. The present invention, however, is not limited to a structure having the particular configuration shown in the drawings. As used herein the term "interlabial absorbent device" refers to a structure that has at least some absorbent components, and that! it is specifically configured to reside within the interlabial space of a female user during use. When the interlabial absorbent device 20 is appropriately sized for a user, more than half of the entire end-absorbent device 20 of the present invention resides within this interlabial space. Preferably, substantially all of the interlabial absorbent device 20 resides within this interlabial space, and most preferably the entire interlabial absorbent device 20 resides within the interlabial space of a female user during use. ^ As used herein, the term "interlabial space" refers to that spade within the pudendal region of the female anatomy, which is located between the inner surfaces of the labia majora that extend into the vestibule. Located within this interlabial space are the labia minora, the vestibule and the main genitourinary limbs that include the clitoris, the urethral orifice, and the vagina hole. The authorities of standard medicine teach that the vestibule refers to the space joined laterally by the internal surfaces of the labia minora and that extends internally towards the inner surface of the clitoris and the orifice of the vagina. Therefore, it will be recognized that the interlabial space as defined above can refer to the space between the inner surfaces of the labia majora, including the space between the inner surfaces of the labia minora also known as the vestibule. The interlabial space for the purposes of the present description does not extend -! substantially beyond the vaginal opening to the vaginal interior. The term "lips" as used herein, generally refers to both of the labia majora and labia minora. The lips end anteriorly and posteriorly and j to the anterior commissure and posterior commissure, respectively. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that there is a wide range of variations among women with respect to the relative size and shape of the labia majora and labia minora. For purposes of the present description, however, these differences do not need to be specifically applied. It will be recognized that the arrangement of the interlabial absorbent device within the interlabial space of a user as defined above, will require placement between the inner surfaces of the labia majora without considering the precise location of the boundary between the labia minora and the labia majora! for a particular user. For a more detailed description of this part of the female anatomy, attention is directed to Gray's Anatomy, Running Press, 1901 Ed. (1974) at 1025 to 1027. The interlabial absorbent device 20 shown in Figure 1 has a longitudinal longitudinal line L which runs along the "x" axis. The term "longitudinal", used herein, refers to a line, axis or direction in the plane of the device *, interlabial I that is generally aligned with (eg, approximately parallel to), a vertical plane that divides a user standing in body halves left and right when the interlabial device 20 is used. The terms "transverse", "lateral", or "y direction", as used herein are interchangeable, and refer to a line, axis or direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The lateral direction is shown in Figure 1 as the "y" direction. The interlabial absorbent device 20 shown in Figure 1 also has a transverse center line T. The "z" direction, shown in Figure 2, is a direction parallel to the vertical plane described above. The term "upper" refers to an orientation in the z direction toward the user's head. "Bottom", or "down", is toward the user's feet. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the interlabial device comprises a liquid-permeable upper sheet 42, a liquid-impermeable backsheet attached to the upper sheet 42, and an absorbent core 44 positioned between the upper sheet 42 and the back sheet 38. The interlabial device 20 should be of a suitable size and shape that allows at least the majority of the device 20 to fit comfortably within the interlabial space of the wearer, and to cover the hole. Vaginal of the user, and preferably also the user's urethra. The interlabial device 20 at least partially blocks and at least preferably completely blocks and intercepts the flow of menses, urine, and other body exudates from the vaginal orifice and the urethra of the wearer. The size of the interlabial device 20 is important for its comfort and effectiveness. The length of the interlabial absorbent device 20 is measured along the longitudinal center line L in the longitudinal direction (or "x" direction). The interlabial absorbent device 20 preferably has a length L ^ which is greater than about 60 millimeters and less than about 130 millimeters. More preferably, the length L | it is between about 90 millimeters and about 105 millimeters. The width of the interlabial device 20 is measured along the transverse center line T in the transverse direction (or "y" direction). He ! The interlabial absorbent device 20 preferably has a width Wi that is between approximately 25 and approximately 50 mm. The thickness (or gauge) is the dimension in the "z" direction of the device 20. The caliper measurements given here were measured using an AMES rule with a (calibrated) load of 0.25 psi (1.7 kPa) and a diameter area of 0.96 inches (2.44 cm). Those skilled in the art will recognize that if a diameter area of 0.96 inches (2.44 cm) is not appropriate for a particular sample size, the size of the area may be varied as the load on the calibrator is therefore varied to maintain a pressure. 0.25 psi confinement (calibrated). The caliper T1 of the interlabial absorbent device 20 is smaller than the width W1 and the length L1 of the device 20. Preferably, the caliper T1 of the nterlabial absorbent device 20 is less than or equal to about 8 mm, more preferably the caliber T1 is smaller about 6 mm, and even more preferably less than about 4 mm. ~~ The construction of the interlabial absorbent device 20 according to the particular size parameters given above results in a product with increased comfort and effectiveness compared to previous interlabial devices. For example, many women find interlabial pads that ^. f are shorter than the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention (such as the anterior interlabial pads) which are difficult to place properly within the interlabial space, even if these pads are properly placed, they have an increased tendency to allow for the diversion of the flow of body exudates around the edges of the pad.In addition, the previous pads were not equipped with a back sheet impervious to liquid.These pads, therefore, can allow staining of the body. and of the panty i as a result of contact with the lower surface of the pad.

• The end device 20 is preferably provided with sufficient absorbency to absorb and retain exudates discharged from the wearer's body, however, the capacity of the product is at least partially dependent on the physical volume of the interlabial absorbent device 20. The interlabial absorbent device preferably has a capacity of at least about 1 gram of 0.9 wt.% saline, and may have a capacity of up to about 30 grams using gels or absorbent foams which expand when wetted.The capacities may typically range from about 2 to £ ZZ i -about 10 grams, for saline solution. Preferably, the capacity of the t-i device 20 is greater than about 6 grams of saline. Will those skilled in the art recognize that the ability for absorption of body exudates, such as menses, will typically be less than the given abilities? Í previously for the absorption of saline solution. A method for measuring the absorbent capacity is described in the Test Methods section, below. Since the interlabial space can expand, larger volumes can be stored within the interlabial space, if the fluid is stored as a gel, which adjusts to body pressures. Additionally, if the interlabial absorbent device 20 does not reside completely within the interlabial space of the wearer, some of the absorbed exudates. -r can be externally stored for the interlabial space of the wearer. f = [... The individual components that may be suitable for the various embodiments of the sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention will now be i observed in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 3. J The upper sheet 42 comprises a first component permeable to liquid. The upper sheet 42 should be docile, soft feeling and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the topsheet 42 must be permeable to the liquid allowing liquids (eg, menses and / or urine) to easily penetrate through its thickness. A suitable upper sheet 42 can be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as woven and nonwoven materials; polymeric materials, such as thermoplastic films formed with openings, plastic films with openings and hydroformed thermoplastic films; porous foams; cross-linked foams; crosslinked thermoplastic films; and thermoplastic canvases. Suitable woven and nonwoven materials -i may be composed of natural fibers (eg, wood fiber or cotton fiber), synthetic fibers, (eg polymer fibers such as polyester, rayon, polypropylene or polyethylene fibers), or from a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. A top sheet 42 suitable for use in the present invention is a - nonwoven material formed from rayon fibers with a basis weight of approximately 18 g / m2 and available from Veratec de Walpole, MA, sold under the designation grade 9313709070. This material is particularly suitable for use as a top sheet 42 because it is a biodegradable material. As used herein, the term "biodegradable materials" refers to materials that have more than or equal to about 70% biodegradation (percentage of theoretical carbon dioxide evolution) after 28 days when measured from according to the Sturm Test, which has been designated the Method - 301 B by the Organization for Cooperation - and Economic Development. Preferably, the materials comprising the present invention have a biodegradation of more than about 80% and, more preferably, a biodegradation that is greater than or equal to about 90%. The topsheet 42 may comprise a film formed with openings. Films formed with openings are permeable to body exudates, and, if properly perforated, have a reduced tendency to allow liquids to pass back through and rewet the user's skin. This .

In this way, the surface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry, thus reducing the staining of the body and creating a more comfortable feeling for the wearer. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 entitled "Absorbent structures having tapered capillaries", which was issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975, patent of the United States No. 4,324,246 entitled "Disposable absorbent article having a stain resistant sheet", which was issued to Mullane et al. On April 13, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 entitled "Elastic plastic weft exhibiting properties in the form of fiber", which was issued to Radel et al. on August 3, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,463,045 entitled "Macroscopically expanded three-dimensional plastic screen exhibiting a dull visible surface and a fabric-like fingerprint" which was issued to Ahr et al. on July 31, 1984; and in U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394"Multilayer Polymer Film", i which was issued to Baird on April 9, 1991. A preferred formed film topsheet for the present invention is the formed film described in FIG. or more of the above patents and which is marketed in sanitary napkins by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, as the top sheet "DRI-WEAVE". Another upper sheet 42 suitable for the present invention is made of = i according to U.S. Patent Nos. 4,609,518 and 4,629,643 both ^ i issued to Curro et al. on September 2, 1986 and December 16, 1986, respectively. Said formed film is manufactured by Tredegar Corporation of Terre i Haute, Indiana. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the body surface of the formed film topsheet is hydrophilic to help transfer the - Y "i liquid through the top sheet 42 faster than if the body surface was not hydrophilic t, to decrease the likelihood that the menstrual fluid will flow out of the sheet upper 42 instead of flowing into and being absorbed by the absorbent core 44. The body surface of the upper sheet 42 can be made hydrophilic by treating it with a surfactant such as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,950 ^ 254 issued to Osborn III. In a preferred embodiment, the surfactant is incorporated into the film materials of the formed film upper sheet. The inner surface of the upper sheet 42 can be secured in contact relation with an underlying absorbent layer. This contact ratio results in the penetration of liquid to the faster top sheet. The topsheet 42 can be maintained in a contact relationship with an underlying layer by joining the topsheet 42 to the underlying layer. However, it is not absolutely necessary to attach the surface of the upper sheet 42 to the surface of the underlying layer. The topsheet 42 can be maintained in contact with an underlying absorbent component, entangling the fibers of the underlying layer with the topsheet, melting the topsheet 42 to an underlying layer by a plurality of individual, discrete merger joints, or by any means known in the art. = - It is not necessary that the upper sheet 42 comprises a layer or material that is separate or distinct from the absorbent core 44. The upper sheet 42 and the absorbent core 44 may consist of a unitary structure in which the surface that is in contact with The body of the absorbent core 44 will serve as the upper sheet 42 permeable to the liquid. In said embodiment, the surface that is in contact with the body, permeable to the liquid, can be hydrophilic or treated to make it hydrophilic in such a way that the fluids easily penetrate through the surface and into the interior of the absorbent core 44. Additionally, the upper sheet 42 and the unitary absorbent core can be provided with a pore size, capillarity, or gradient of hydrophilic capacity to aid in the absorption and retention of the fluids within the absorbent core 44.

The absorbent core 44, which is best seen in Figure 2, is placed between the topsheet 42 and the backsheet 38. The absorbent core 44 provides the means for absorbing exudates such as menses and other body fluids. The absorbent core 44 is preferably generally compressible, capable of forming, and not being irritating to the wearer's skin. The absorbent core 44 may comprise any suitable material that is capable of absorbing and / or retaining liquids (e.g., menses and / or urine).

Preferably, the absorbent core 44 has the same general shape as the , Absolute Absorbent Absorbent Device 20. The absorbent core 44 (and the total interlabial absorbent device 20) can be manufactured in a wide variety of ways. Non-limiting examples of the shapes for the absorbent core 44 when seen from the top of Figure 1 include ovoid, elliptical, trapezoidal, rectangular, triangular, cylindrical, diamond-shaped ¥ or any combination of the above. As shown in Figure 1, the preferred shape for the absorbent core 44 and the overall interlabial absorbent device 20 is generally ovoid or elliptical. The absorbent core 44. it can be manufactured from a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in absorbent articles, such as crushed wood pulp, which is generally referred to as an air filter. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials include creped cellulose wadding; blown polymers in the molten state, including coform; chemically hardened, modified or cross-linked cellulose fibers; synthetic fibers, such as pleated polyester fibers; peat moss; tissue, including tissue wraps and tissue laminates, absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; gelling absorbent materials; or any equivalent material or combinations of materials, or mixtures thereof. Preferred absorbent materials comprise folded woven materials, woven fabrics, needle-punched rayon, and layers.

Thin foam. The absorbent core 44 may comprise a simple material. Alternatively, the absorbent core 44 may comprise a combination of materials. A particularly preferred material for the absorbent core 44 is a rayon wadding or a rayon / cotton blend. A three-lobed rayon known as GALAXY rayon, available from Courtaulds Fibers, Inc., of Axis, Alabama, has been found to work well for the material comprising the absorbent core 44. The backsheet 38, which is best seen in Figures 2 and 3, prevents the exudates absorbed and contained within the absorbent core 44 from wetting the articles and / or parts of the body that are in contact with the interlabial device 20 such as underpants, pajamas, undergarments, pubic hair, thighs of the wearer, etc. The back sheet 38 should be flexible and impervious to liquids (eg, menses and / or urine). The backsheet 38 is impermeable to liquids (e.g., menses and / or urine), and is preferably flexible. As used here, the term "flexible" refers to materials that are docile and that will easily conform to the contour and general shape of the human body. The backsheet 38 also provides protection to the wearer's fingers as the interlabial absorbent device 20 is inserted, or as the device is optionally removed with the fingers. The backsheet 38 may comprise a woven or non-woven material, polymeric films such as polyethylene or polypropylene thermoplastic films; or composite materials such as a film-coated nonwoven material. The backsheet can be made of a polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. An exemplary polyethylene film is manufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the designation P18-0401. The backsheet can allow the vapors from device 20 to escape (it is say, breathable), while still preventing exudates from passing through the back sheet. Preferably, the backsheet 38 is capable of dispersing and / or dissolving in Y I water. Polyvinyl alcohol (including polyvinyl alcohol copolymers) has been found suitable as a material for the backsheet 38 capable of dissolving. Polyvinyl alcohol can be coated with a tissue, with a wax or other hydrophobic coating to reduce the rate at which it dissolves in water. This allows the backsheet 38 to maintain its integrity during use, while delaying the ability to dissolve in water during the elmination of the device 20. The term "capable of dispersing" as applied herein to an interlabial absorbent device or a component it refers to an article or material that will disperse in at least two fragments in slightly stirred water. Said device will break into pieces in conventional toilet or conventional domestic piping systems, and finally it will be processed through a 2-way wastewater treatment system. The term "capable of dissolving" as applied herein to an interlabial absorbent device or a component thereof, refers to an article or material that will at least partially dissolve and essentially assume the liquid form or otherwise be indistinguishable to the naked eye of the liquid medium in which it dissolves. The components of the interlabial absorbent device 20 described above (the topsheet 42, the backsheet 38, the absorbent core 44) can be assembled in any suitable manner. In the preferred embodiment shown in rl Figures 1 to 3, the components of the main body portion are assembled in a "sandwich" configuration with the components dimensioned such that the edges of the upper sheet 42 and the back sheet 38 extend outwardly beyond the edges of the absorbent core 44. The topsheet 42 and the backsheet 38 are preferably at least partially peripherally bonded using techniques known. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the topsheet 42 is preferably secured to the backsheet 38 along a seam, such as the seam 60. The seam 60 is preferably impervious to liquid. The seam 60 can be formed by any means commonly used in the art for this purpose such as by gluing, pleating or heat sealing. The seam 60 and the area of the interlabial absorbent device 20 in the vicinity of the seam 60 should be soft, compressible and conformable. If the seam 60 and the surrounding area are too rigid or not able to compress, the wearer may experience discomfort when wearing the interlabial device 20. The term "attached", as used herein, encompasses configurations in which the element to the other element by fixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by fixing the element to a member or intermediate members, which in turn are fixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with the other element, that is, one element is essentially part of the other element. - The components of the interlabial absorbent device 20 can be joined together by adhesives, sewing, joints with heat and / or pressure, dynamic mechanical bonds, ultrasonic bonds, entanglement or intermixing of the fibers or other structural elements comprising the components of the interlayer absorbent device. , such as blowing in the molten state the fibers comprising one component in another component, extruding one component into another, or by any other means known in the art. The components of the interlabial absorbent device 20 can be attached with water-soluble adhesives in order to increase the tendency of the device to be dispersed in a plurality of fragments in slightly stirred water (such as ~ in an odorless).

Preferably, the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention is disposable in the toilet. The term "disposable in the toilet" as used herein includes the following features of an interlabial absorbent device: "discharge capacity, dispersion capacity, settling capacity and biodegradability capacity." As used herein, the terms "downloadable or with discharge capacity "refers to the ability of the product to pass through typical commercially available toilets and drainage piping systems without causing occlusion or similar problems that may be directly associated with the physical structure of the product. recognizes, however, that there may be many differences between the various types of toilets available.

And the purposes of the appended claims, a test is established to determine the unloading capacity of a catámenial product, such as an interlabial device, in the TEST METHODS section of this description. "Settlement capacity" refers to to the tendency of an interlabial absorbent device, such as the interlabial absorbent device 20, to settle and eventually to the bottom of a septic tank or other sewage treatment system instead of floating on the surface of these tanks or sewage which is processed. Preferably, the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention is disposable in the toilet and will disperse in at least two fragments within two hours of exposure to moderately agitated water, at room temperature, as described in Test of Water Dispersion in the TEST METHODS section, below.More preferably, the interlabial absorbent device 20 will be dispersed in a plurality of fragments within about 60 minutes or, even more preferably within about 30 minutes and most preferably, within about 15 minutes as measured by the Test of Dispersion in Water. Preferably, the product will break into fragments that are less than about 6 square inches (15 cm2), more preferably less than about 2 in2 (5 cm2), most preferably less than about 1.5 in2 (3.7 cm2). In the particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention, each of the components of the interlabial absorbent device 20 will disperse in a plurality of fragments when immersed in moderately agitated water. Alternatively, the components of the interlabial absorbent device 20 may separate from each other without themselves breaking them into a plurality of fragments (eg, the topsheet 42, the backsheet 38, and the absorbent core 44 may break one of the two. another separately while each other remains intact). Preferably, the interlabial absorbent device 20 comprises biodegradable materials. Although biodegradable materials are preferred for the lablab absorbent device 20, it is not necessary that each and every material used be biodegradable. For example, the device 20 may comprise particles and superabsorbents that are not capable of biodegradation, and this will not affect the ability of the total device 20 to remain disposable in the toilet and to be effectively processed in a sewage Fracking system. ~ The nterlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention in its fully assembled configuration comprises at least one preferred bending axis A.

The preferred bending axis A is preferably generally located along the longitudinal centerline L of the liplabel absorbent device 20. The preferred bending axis A is a line or axis along which the interlabial absorbent device 20 will tend to flex or bend when subjected to compression forces F directed inwardly in the transverse direction at the sides 32 of the device 20. The preferred bending axis A may naturally result from the configuration of the product, or the device 20 it can be imparted with a weakened shaft or region on any or all of the top sheet 42, the back sheet 38 and the absorbent core 44, to create the preferred flexion axis A. Such a weakened shaft can be created by a variety of known techniques such as marking, pre-bending, cracking, or the like. The interlabial absorbent device 20 may comprise a preferred bending region formed of a plurality of preferred bending axes. Any number of said axes may comprise such a preferred flexion region up to an infinite number. The interlabial absorbent device 20 is folded along the preferred flexion axis A, as shown in Figure 4, prior to insertion into the interlabial space of the wearer. Once inserted, the device 20 will preferably tend to bend slightly keeping the blade above the device 20 in contact with the inner walls of the user's lips. The device 20 may be elastically biased slightly along the preferred bending axis A to increase the - I trend of device 20 to double. This allows the folded device 20 to act as a "spring" under both wet and dry conditions and, consequently, increase the tendency of the upper sheet 42 of the device to remain in contact with the inner surfaces of the lips when the device Interlabial 20 absorbent is in place. A device 20 constructed in accordance with the preferred embodiment described above, however, does not necessarily require any of the! additional structural features to provide the ability to maintain that contact. The naturally wet surfaces of the lips will have a tendency to adhere to the material comprising the top sheet 42, further tending to keep the device 20 in contact with the inner surfaces of the lips. The interlabial absorbent device 20 described herein is both flexible and compliant. The ability to flex and the capacity and compression are important to behave the product. If the interlabial absorbent article 20 is too flexible, the interlabial absorbent device 20 is not conveniently placed an easily between the folds of the lips, if it is too rigid, the device is uncomfortable and when the user is in a sitting position, the product can be forced forward against the clitoris causing discomfort. It is believed that the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention offers several advantages over the above interlabial pads. Devices constructed with the size ranges and preferred shapes described above have been found to be particularly suitable for reliable insertion by a variety of users. Additionally, the device 20 described above has been found to be particularly effective in trapping the clots that may form from menstrual discharges. This trapping attribute of the clots is believed to be increased by the generally planar top sheet 42 of the device 20 which is bent along the preferred flexion axis A in use. The bent configuration of the device 20 when appropriately dimensioned as described above allows consistent protection of the walls of the lips and of the vaginal introitus. This protection substantially reduces the incidence of deviation around the device 20 by menstrual discharges or other bodily discharges that are exhibited by the anterior interlabial pads. | Superior performance upon acquiring menstrual discharges, particularly clots, is demonstrated by an interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention as described above, in which the topsheet 42 and the absorbent core 44 comprise rayon. The preferred shape of the proximal absorbent device 20 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 (ie, one in which the device that is thinned at the ends) allows the device to easily and comfortably adjust to the user's labial space. A device 20 with such a thinned shape, when it is folded along the axis of Preferred bending A (as Figure 4) will have a profile in which the highest point along the bending axis A (as measured in the Z direction) is in the vicinity of the center of the device 20 instead of in the extremes. The liquid impermeable backsheet 38 of the interlabial absorbent device 20 is also responsible for the improved operation of the product. As described above, the posterior sheet reduces the likelihood that the body or clothing will be stained with the discharges that are absorbed by the device 20.

Additionally when the device 20 is folded that along the preferred bending axis A, the back sheet 38 will form a recess 62 that protects the wearer's fingers against staining when device 20 is inserted. The anterior interlabial pads have not combined the attributes of the device 20 of the present invention to obtain the performance and comfort results described herein. Several anterior pads composed of an absorbent material with a generally cylindrical shape, which are inserted into the interlabial space. These devices were not provided with a back sheet impervious to liquid. As a result, these are characterized by a less clean insertion and removal, the can be associated with increased spotting of the panty and the body compared to the present device. Other types of prior I ~ r pads included a waterproof backsheet, but the pads were much larger and the device 20 the present invention and included significant portions I that reside externally to the interlabial space. These designs can also lead to increased body spotting as body fluids discharged migrate to the outer surfaces of these pads. Additionally, it is believed that the interlabial device 20 of the present invention offers comfort advantages (e.g., reduced use perception) as compared to the larger prior art pads, described above.

It has been found during the development of the present invention that the interlabial absorbent device 20 better conforms to the labial dome than the previously available interlabial pads. Additionally, the generally flat and bent configuration of the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention is found to give a better visual indication to the users as to how to insert and use the device. Therefore, device 2'0 of the present invention is associated with easier and more accurate insertion as compared to previous interlabial pads. The interweaving absorbent device 20 is preferably provided with an optional removal tab 52 unit to the backsheet 38. The tab 52 can be made from a variety of materials and does not need to be absorbent. The tab 52 can be lined from a non-woven material which is heat-bonded to a layer of tissue. An appropriate non-woven material is known as COROLIND and is available from Corovin, GmbH, Comb, Germany. A tissue placed with adequate air is available from Merfin Hygenic Products, Ltd., Delta, British Columbia, Canada, which has a base weight of -! about 61 grams per square meter and having a class designation number of 176. The tab 52 can be of any suitable size that provides convenient fastening of the finger during insertion and, optionally, removal of the device 20. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3, the tongue 52 is about 20 mm long, and about 13 mm high (ie, measured in the "z" direction after fixing). - The tongue 52 is preferably attached to the surface of the back sheet 38, which faces away from the upper sheet 42. The tongue 52 provides a location for the wearer to grasp the device 20 during insertion. The absorbent device r I - I interlabial 20 is designed to be expelled by urination. However, the tab 52 may provide an alternate mechanism for removal of device 20 (i.e., finger removal). - As previously discussed, the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention is designed to be placed within the interlabial space of a user. To use the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention, the user holds the tab 52 of the device '20. If the device 20 is not provided with a tab 52, the wearer can hold the folded device 20 on the sides 32 and begin the insertion. The device 20 is fire inserted further by pushing it with a finger or fingers into the hollow 62 formed by the folded back sheet 38. As shown in Figure 4, the bent device 20 forms a gap 62 inside the folded back sheet 38, which covers the tips of the user's fingers during insertion. This feature provides a hygienic insertion of the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention. The user can assume a crouched position during insertion to help extend the labial surfaces. Figure 5 shows a preferred embodiment of the interlabial absorbent device of the present invention inserted into "the interlabial space of the user W. The genitourinary members shown in figure 5 include the bladder B, the bladder V, the urethra O, the clitoris C, the large intestine, the anus A , the vaginal introitus VI, the ring of • hymen H, the labia minora N, and the labia majora J. Figure 5 shows the relationship of these anatomical characteristics of the user W with respect to the absorbent device Nterlabial 20 when the device is properly inserted for use. Once the interlabial absorbent device 20 is inserted, the topsheet 42 tends to adhere to the inner surface of the lips. When the wearer is standing, the labial walls close more closely around the interlabial absorbent device 20 on two sides.

. The interlabial device 20 is preferably at least partially retained in place by exerting a light pressure directed laterally outwardly on the inner surfaces of the labia majora, labia minora, or both lips of the wearer. Additionally, the product can also be maintained by traction of the labial surfaces 1 and 2 naturally to the material comprising the topsheet 42. Optionally, the topsheet 42 of the device 20 can be provided with a biocompatible adhesive to assist the adhesion of the device 20 to the inner surfaces of the user's lips. The strength of this adhesive can be selected to assist the interlabial absorbent device 20 in remaining in place, while still allowing for reliable and comfortable removal of the wearer's interlabial device. The interlabial absorbent device 20 can be worn as a "single product". Additionally, superior performance in reducing staining of the body and garments for extended periods of time of use (such as nighttime) can be obtained by using the interlabial absorbent device 20 as part of a hygiene "system" of products. feminine A system that is effective in reducing staining is a nterlabial absorbent device, such as the interlabial absorbent device 20, which is carried simultaneously with a sanitary napkin, such as the sanitary napkin 70 (shown in FIG. 6). This system of an interlabial device in combination with a sanitary towel L is more effective than either a sanitary napkin or an interlabial pad used alone. The interlabial absorbent device used in the system of the present invention can, and preferably, has all of the preferred attributes of the interlabial absorbent device 20 described above. The sanitary towel 70 of the present system can be any suitable conventional sanitary. The sanitary towel 70 preferably comprises at least one upper sheet 72 permeable to the liquid, a liquid-impermeable backsheet 74 attached to the topsheet, and an absorbent core 76 positioned between the topsheet 72 and the backsheet 74. Additionally, the sanitary napkin 70 preferably includes a pressure sensitive adhesive 80 disposed thereon. side facing towards the garment of the backsheet 74. The adhesive 80 1 allows the sanitary pad 70 to be due to the crotch portion of the wearer's undergarments. When the undergarments are worn in the position of normal use, the sanitary napkin 70 will rest adjacent to the pudendal region of the wearer's body. The sanitary napkin 70 can also be provided with additional features Y - r commonly found in sanitary napkins, including "wings" or "wings" such as wings 78. A sanitary napkin suitable for use in the system described above is the "ALWAYS" sanitary napkin which is manufactured and packaged by Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, under one or more of the patents of the United States of America: 4,342,314; 4,463,045; 4,556,146; B1 4,589,876; 4,687,478; 4,950,264; 5,009 ^ 653; 5,267,992; 5,413,568; 5,460,623; 5,462,166; 5,489,283; 5,569,231; and 32,649. Other sanitary pads are also acceptable, such as those without wings 78 or those that are not of the "ultra-thin" type. - In order to use an interlabial absorbent device and a sanitary napkin as a feminine hygiene product system, the user inserts the interlabial absorbent device in her interlabial space and places a sanitary napkin in the crotch portion of an undergarment Panty type These two steps can be reset in any order. Some women prefer or prefer to place the sanitary napkin in the crotch of the panty first in order to trap and absorb and stop the menstrual flow that could be released before the moment the interlábial absorbent device can be inserted. Other women will choose to insert the interlabial absorbent device first. After the interlabial absorbent device was inserted and the sanitary towel was placed between the crotch of the garment Inside, the undergarment is pulled up towards its normal position of use. Consequently, the sanitary napkin will rest adjacent to the pudendal region of the wearer's body and will be carried simultaneously with the interlabial absorbent device. i = Preferably, the interlabial absorbent device used with the system described above is changed each time the user urinates. The associated sanitary napkin can be worn for prolonged periods of time (ie, beyond the change of the interlabial absorbent device, due to the volume of bodily fluids that will be deposited on and absorbed by the interlabial device as opposed to the towel Particularly, if the interlabial absorbent device 20 is provided with a tab 52 for removal, some woman will prefer to remove the interlabial absorbent device 20 prior to urination, then subsequently re-insert the same device 20 but has still absorbed almost to its Total capacity The sanitary napkin and the interlabial absorbent device of the above-described system can be packaged in a common package as a "case" for feminine hygiene This case facilitates the use of the system of the present invention Preferably, the package associated with Such a case will include instructions on how to use the interlabial absorbent device and the sanitary napkin according to the method described above as a system of feminine hygiene products. I A suitable alternate female hygiene product system comprises the tissue absorbent device 20 of the present invention used concurrently with an absorbent pad, such as the buffer 86 shown in FIG. 7. The absorbent pad of this product system the feminine hygiene can be any suitable conventional cataminer buffer, including any of the buffers sold under the trademark "TAMPAX" and which are distributed by Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. The buffer used can be any of the type of insertion of the applicator or of digital insertion and any suitable applicator known in the art can be used. The tampon is first inserted into the vaginal cavity of the user. Next, from the insertion of the tampon, the interlabial absorbent device is inserted into the interiabial space of the wearer. The interlabial device and the tampon are then worn simultaneously for a period of time. The interlabial absorbent device can be removed and changed each time the user urinates, or it can be removed from re-inserting after urination. Similarly, the absorbent pad and interlabial absorbent device r of this system can also be packaged in a common package such as a female hygiene kit. This case facilitates the use of the alternative system of the present invention. - i - = - The systems and associated cases of the present invention may also comprise the simultaneous use of an interlabial absorbent device, tampon, and sanitary napkin. Cases that comprise all three types of feminine hygiene products can also be packaged in a common package and include appropriate instructions for using these systems. In addition to the systems described above, the interlabial absorbent device 20 can be worn simultaneously with a panty-protector or with an incontinence pad for menstrual or incontinence use. The interlabial absorbent device 20 described above can be combined and packaged with a panty hose, an incontinence pad or a sanitary pad to form a female urinary incontinence case. Such an incontinence case preferably includes the appropriate packing material that instructs the user as to how to use the feminine hygiene products for protection against light incontinence. The interlabial device 20 can be worn in conventional panties or can be used with menstrual pants. _ Many alternate modes of the absorbent device are possible Nterlabial of the present invention. For example, these products are designed to be removed by urination, although an alternate extraction cord or loop may be used. These products can also be used with emollients and / or medicated treatments. For example, a suitable emollient for use on the interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention is composed of about 50% petrolatum, about 39% cetearyl alcohol, and about 15% Ceteareth-10. An emollient coating of approximately 0.03 g has been found to be suitable. The interlabial absorbent device 20 of the present invention may be provided with a visual indicia on the center of the topsheet 42, designating the area of greater absorbent capacity of the device 20. This indication may consist of a different colored region such as a pink oval. The indication can be approximately 12 mm wide, approximately 20 mm wide and approximately 20 mm long. The interlabial absorbent device 20 can also be provided with a visual indication of change. In other words, the device 20 may have a ring, a joining pattern, compression lines, or other visual indicator provided on the surface of the upper sheet 42 at a predetermined distance inward from the seam 60. When the bodily discharges absorbed reach the visual indication of change or outside the indication of change, the user discerns to replace the interlabial absorbent device 20. Such indication of change is particularly useful for users who remove the device 20 before urination and then return to insert the same device 20 but still reached its absorbing capacity. If desired, the interlabial absorbent device 20 can be packaged in a single package, such as the package 50 shown in Figures 8 and 9. The package Individual I 50 may be composed of a number of suitable materials, including films and disposable materials in the toilet. In Figures 8 and 9 the package 50 is made of a frangibly sealed film on the edges. The package 50 is provided with an opening tab 56 which can be of any suitable configuration. Suitable methods for tangibly sealing the packages are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,556,146 issued to Swanson and in the U.S. patent.

United States number 5,462,166 issued to Minton et al. Tabs suitable for this package are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,413,568 issued to Roach, et al. The following examples are presented to provide a more detailed understanding of the benefits that are achieved from the interlabial absorbent device, methods and kits of the present invention. The examples i are intended to be representative, and are not intended to specifically limit the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLES - The base pad 1 is a commercially available "ALWAYS" Maxi ultra I i sanitary towel. The base pad 2 is a sanitary pad I "ALWAYS" Maxi ultra thin with wings. Both manufactured by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. ! I The interlabial pad 1 is the interlabial pad commercially "IN-SYNC / IINIFORM" (also formerly known as "FRESH 'N FIT PADETTE") manufactured by A-Fem (formerly known as Athena Medical Corp.) of Portland, OR. The interlabial pad 2 is an interlabial absorbent device of the present invention constructed as described above. The top sheet is 100% rayon. The core is 50% cotton and 50% Galaxy rayon. The backsheet is a polyethylene film manufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the designation P18-0401. The pad has a removal tab constructed of a non-woven material thermally bonded to a tissue layer. The non-woven material is COROLIND available from Corovin, GmbH, Peine, Germany. The tissue is a tissue placed with air that is available from Merfin Hygenic Products, Ltd., of Delta, British Columbia, Canada, which has the designation class number 176. The caliper of the pad is approximately 5.5 mm, the width of 40 mm, and the length approximately 85 mm. Each pad is coated with approximately 0.03 g of emollient composed of approximately 50% petrolatum, approximately 39% cetearyl alcohol, and approximately 15% Ceteareth-10. I ™ ~ Table 1 below describes the pad systems that are used I! by groups of women who menstruate during a complete menstrual cycle. The systems described below are used exclusively during the cycle. The participants are instructed to change all the pads each time they urinate (approximately every 2 to 3 hours). The table reports the incidence of spotting of the panties associated with a given system or pad.

TABLE 1 As demonstrated above, significant performance improvements are obtained from the method and kit of the present invention, and from the interlabial device of the present invention.

TESTING METHOD Absorbent Capacity t * The absorbent capacity can be determined as follows: the test is performed on samples that have been conditioned by leaving them in a room at a relative humidity of 50% and at 73 ° F for a period of two hours before the test.

The test must be carried out under similar conditions. The item is weighed to 0.1 grams closer. The article is then immersed in a beaker of 0.9% sterile saline (obtainable from Baxter Travenol Company of Deerfiled, IL), such that the article is completely submerged and is not flexed or otherwise twisted or bent. The article is submerged for 10 minutes. The article is removed to the saline solution and suspended for two minutes in an upright position to allow the saline solution to drain from the article. The article is placed on the surface facing downwards on an absorbent blotting paper, such as filter paper # 631 available from Filfration Science Corp., Eaton-Dikeman Division of Mount Holly Springs, PA. A uniform load of 17.6 is placed grams per square centimeter on the article to get the excess fluid out. The absorbent paper towel is replaced every 30 seconds until the amount of fluid transferred to the blotting paper is less than 0.5 grams in a period of 30 seconds. Next, the article is weighed to the nearest 0.1 gram and the dry weight of the item is subtracted. The difference in grams is the absorbent capacity of the article.

Water Dispersion Test Apparatus Orbit Junior Vibrator Vibrator available from Lab Line "i Instruments from Melrose Park, Ill. 30-120 ° F Thermometer with one-degree divisions Stopwatch Digital Stopwatch Jar with lid Glass Jar with 16 oz. Lid. humidity must be controlled to remain within the following limits: Temperature: 73 + 3 ° F (23 ° C + 2 ° C) Humidity: Relative Humidity of 50 + 2% Equipment arrangement 1. Fill the glass jar with 300 ml of common water at 73 + 3 ° F. 2. Set the speed of the Orbit Junior Vibrator at 250 rpm according to the directions of? maker.

Procedure 1. Maintain a sample (eg, an absorbent interlabial device) of 7.6 to 10.2 cm above the surface of the water in the jar. Gently drip the sample on the surface of water. 2. Place the lid on the jar. 3. Place the jar on the Junior Orbit Vibrator so that the jar is oriented on its side. 4. Turn on the Junior Orbit vibrator _ with the on / off switch, turning on the timer when the vibrator is turned on. 5. Record the time required until the sample separates into at least two pieces. The separation does not include the dissociation of a few individual fibers from an otherwise intact sample. The time is the total time of the sample that is shaken. 6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 with three additional samples.

Calculation and report Calculate and report the mean and standard deviation of the time of the - __ '-! Water dispersion capacity for the 4 samples tested. i DISCHARGE CAPACITY Summary As distinguished above, the terms "downloadable or unloading capacity" refers to the ability of the product to pass through typical, commercially available household toilets, and facility drainage system sanitary without causing obstruction or similar problems that may be directly associated with the physical characteristics of the product. For the purpose of the appended claims, the catamenial products are evaluated for their discharge capacity through the relative facility of the toilet rate and the evacuation of the siphon and subsequent transport through a simulated sanitary system. The discharge capacity of such a device must be measured by the following test procedure. The test procedure is designed to simulate two days of normal toilet use for a family of four (two men, two women). The test used a discharge sequence that simulates the following conditions: male urination visits, female urination visits (including post-urinal drying with paper), disposal of catamenial products (ie, the nterlabial device or other device that goes to be tested) with toilet paper and bowel evacuation visits. The amount of paper to be used for each paper discharge is a normal discharge of 2 strips of 7 sheets. Normal loading is based on consumer research regarding typical habits and practices. The test was designed to YY I simulate the conditions of a product that you will find if it is discharged through a conventional toilet and into a municipal sewer or in a septic tank.The samples were evaluated for: 1> cleared of the toilet and stump rate, 2) blockage-of the drainage line, and 3) disintegration during discharge.

Apparatus? A suitable apparatus for the discharge capacity test is shown in the plan view in Figure 10. The apparatus includes: A toilet with swirl siphon, water saver of 13.2 liters, - referred to as 210 (additional toilets may also be attached to the pipe arrangement shown in Figure 10, to evaluate the performance of test samples using different discharge mechanisms such as pressure, commercial toilets). • Approximately 18 meters of 10 cm acrylic tubing (as shown in * see in Figure 10, the pipe is generally assembled in a square configuration, having linear runs 211, 212, 213, 215, 217, 219, 221 approximately (3 meters) long; • a cast iron T 223 slightly downstream of the toilet 210 that is open to the atmosphere for ventilation; • 5 elbow tubes of 90 degrees cast iron 212, 214, 216, 218 and 220; _ '• a stump 222 placed vertically (Figure 11) of * "approximately 4.57 meters from the terminal end of the pipe and approximately 2.5 cm long, and» - • A grate (Tyler No. 4 sieve) to capture the effluent solid for the evaluation of disintegration. ~ * The apparatus used for this method is set to be equivalent to A112.19.2M-1990 ANSI Standard for Chinese ceramic accessories.! The pipe is installed to provide a drop of 2 cm per meter of pipe length. - - Materials Paper Product used in the Test: CHARMIN® standard toilet paper manufactured by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio Synthetic Fecal Material: Prepared to the method according to the method described below _] Test download sequence The trial download sequence simulates 2 days of normal toilet use for a family of 4 (2 men, 2 ~ women, based on the habits and practice of the consumer investigated). The sequence of 34 total downloads consists of 14 downloads with an empty rate, 8 downloads with paper only 6 downloads with paper and one catamenial product and 6 downloads with paper and simulated faecal matter (SFM). When this is used, the SFM is placed at the rate just before the paper is added, the SFM load of 160 degrees + 5 grams consists of 2 pieces of 2.5 cm x 10 cm and a piece of 2.5 cm x 5 cm. The folded paper strips (or the catamenial product) are placed at the rate at 10-second intervals. 10 seconds later the strip or final pad is placed on the rate, the toilet is discharged. The download sequence is described below and a series of two routines combined in the following order: - ' Z Routine No.1 (A is performed 6 times for a total of 30 discharges) _ O Paper discharge only - Capture reading of drain line taken 2 minutes after the water reaches the ~ "simulated obstruction, wait an additional minute, and move to step 2. ^ 2) Download with the empty rate Take a blocking reading of the drain line 2 minutes after the water reaches the - stump point and move to step 3 . _- I 3) Download with paper and catamenial product. Take a drain line lock reading 2 minutes after the water - i- reaches the stump point, wait an additional 1 minute and move to 1 step 4. i 4) Empty discharge rate. Take a drain line blockage reading 2 minutes after the water reaches the stump point and move to step 5. _ '_ 5) Download with paper and simulated fecal matter (SFM). Take a reading of the blockage of the drainage line 2 minutes after the water reaches stump point, wait an additional minute.

Routine No. 2 (To be done once) 1) Paper discharge only: Take a reading of the blockage of the draining line 2 minutes after the water reaches the stump point, wait an additional minute, and move to step 2. 2) Download with the empty rate. Take a reading of the blockage of the drain line 2 minutes after the water reaches the stump point and move to step 3. 3) Download with paper only. Take a reading of the blockage of the drain line 2 minutes after the water reaches the stump point, wait an additional minute, and move to step 4. Y I 4) Unload with the empty rate. Take a reading of the blockage of the drain line 2 minutes after the water reaches the point of the stump. The total number of downloads by sequence is 34. i L [If, at any point in the discharge sequence, the product remains in the lid or siphon after discharge, the paper and / or the catamenial product will be thrown to the drain line manually and the discharge sequence will continue .

After completing each test load, the drain pipe will be cleared before beginning the subsequent test. The above-described download sequence is repeated three times for each test product.

Data Report The degree of blockage of the drain line is determined by measuring the length of standing water completely behind the obstruction. Graduations are marked every 30 cm on the drain pipe upstream of the extrusion. Each standing length that the water recedes corresponds to 6.6 cm or 6.25 cm of the blockade at the point of extrusion. The residues of the test product that exist in the drain pipe are also collected. The following data are recorded for each evaluation: 1) Incidence of failure (%) of the catamenial product to clear the siphon and the rate in a discharge. 2) Incidence of failure (%) of the catamenial product to clear the 'siphon and the rate in two discharges. 3) Incidence of the product on the simulated stump. 4) Maximum level (%) of the drain line lock. 5) Accumulated level (%) of the blockage of the drain line during the simulated two-day test period.

Preferably, the products described herein will completely clear the bowl at least 70% of the time of two fewer discharges, more preferably at least 80% of the time of one discharge, and most preferably at least about 95% of the time in one discharge. The products described herein will preferably have a maximum block level of the drain line of less than or equal to about 80%. The products described herein will preferably have an accumulated level of blockage of the drain line during the similar test period of two days less than or equal to about 70%.

Preparation of Synthetic Fecal Material I. Materials Needed: I • Synthetic fecal matter Felcone (900 grams); J 1 (Available from Silicone Studio, Valle Forge, PA as a dry concentrate BFPS-7) • Running water at 100 ° C (6066 grams) II. Equipment needed: "• Mixer (Available from Hobart Corp., Troy, OH, as model "A200) • Extruder (Available from Hobart Corp., Troy, OH as Model 4812) I • Disposable centrifugal tubes with screw caps (50 ml) (Available WVR Scientific, Chicago, IR, Catalog No. 21-008-176) • Water bath to control the temperature at 37 ° C. III. Preparation: i ~ _ 1. Drain the water at 100 ° C in the mixing bowl of the mixer and add the dry concentrate of Feclone. 2. Mix at low speed for one minute. 3. Mix at medium speed for two minutes. 4. After the material has been mixed well, transfer it to the extruder. 5. Use an ice pick, puncturing a small hole in the tip of each spin tube. 6. Extrude the Feclone in the centrifuge tubes. 7. Cover the centrifuged tubes and store in the refrigerator. 8. Before use, place the tubes in the water bath at 38 ° C. This concludes the test. "~ - The disclosure of all patents, patent applications (and any of the patents issued thereon, as well as any corresponding published foreign patent applications), and the publications mentioned throughout this description are by the present incorporated by i reference here. However, it is not expressly admitted that any of the [documents incorporated by reference herein, teach or disclose the present invention.

. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (10)

1. An interlabial absorbent device comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet attached to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, - I characterized in that: the absorbent device is insertable within the interlabial space of a female user, said absorbent device having a length, a width, a thickness, and a longitudinal central line, wherein. the length of the absorbent device is between 60 mm and 127 mm, preferably between 85 mm and 127 mm, the width of the absorbent device is between 25 mm and 40 mm, the width and length of the absorbent device each exceeds the thickness of the absorbent device, said absorbent device comprises a preferred bending axis, such that when the absorbent device is folded along said axis and inserted into the interlabial space of the wearer, the upper sheet of the absorbent device maintains contact with the walls of the user's lips. !

2. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid-permeable topsheet comprises rayon. And

3. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent core comprises rayon, preferably a mixture of rayon and cotton. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the time required for the interlabial absorbent device to disperse into at least two fragments as measured by the Water Scatter Test is less than two hours, preferably less than one hour, more preferably less than 30 minutes. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid impermeable backsheet comprises polyvinyl alcohol. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein said absorbent device is at least 70% biodegradable, preferably at least 90% biodegradable. The absorbent device according to claim 1, further comprising a removal tab attached to the backsheet. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein said interlabial absorbent device has a substantially flat ovoid shape, and preferably said device also thins a smaller width at each end. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the device is resiliently deflected to unfold along the preferred bending axis. Y- 10. The absorbent device according to claim 1, wherein the device is capable of sufficiently discharging that it completely clears the cup after the Discharge Capacity Test at least 70% of the time in two or less downloads, preferably the device completely clears the rate at least 90% of the time in a download.