RU2394543C2 - Absorbing product for women - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to medical equipment, namely to absorbing products for women, such as hygienic pads, intended for everyday use pads for knickers or protecting device used in case of incontinence. Absorbing product contains liquid-permeable upper sheet and liquid-impermeable lower sheet, two longitudinal lateral edges, one transversal anterior edge, one transversal posterior edge, front part, back part, perineum part, located between back part and front part. Intermediate part is divided into front section and back section with central line and is from 7 to 12 cm long. Absorbing product also contains at least one first element detaining microorganisms or first section, which has anterior border, posterior border and two lateral borders, first element or first section being located in such way that it will be located in user's perineum when used. First element is located on upper sheet or first section is included into upper sheet, and is located in such way that anterior border of first element or first section is on posterior section of perineum region. Product detaining microorganisms with distance between transversal posterior edge and transversal anterior edge from 2 to 6 cm, and distance between longitudinal lateral edges from 3 to 5 cm can be attached to user with location in perineum. In one of the versions of implementation absorbing product forms set for prevention or reduction of microorganism migration from anal orifice zone to genitourinary zone. Set in accordance with the second version of implementation includes application of composition for prevention or reduction of microorganism migration onto absorbing product onto mark on upper sheet by means of cotton bud, brush or peg.

EFFECT: application of invention allows to reduce risk of infection by avoiding microorganisms migration.

21 cl, 10 dwg

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to absorbent products and products that inhibit microorganisms intended for use by women, containing a microorganism-inhibiting element or part for preventing urogenital infections.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Infections in the urogenital zone are a problem that affects many people. In the anus and around the anus there are many types of microorganisms. It is known that one cause of many infections in the urogenital zone is that microorganisms from the human intestinal flora spread from the anus through the perineum to the urogenital zone and cause infection there.

The ecological balance between the various microorganisms on the skin and mucous membranes usually prevails, and normal microbiological flora is very important in preventing the formation of unwanted microorganisms. However, this natural defense system is sometimes inadequate and can be disrupted so that it creates the possibility that potentially pathogenic microorganisms will “root” and cause infection, for example, in combination with drug treatment, poor hygiene, skin changes, changes in mucous membranes and long-term use of absorbent products.

As for the danger of encountering infections in the urogenital zone, it should be noted that for women this risk is greater than for men, due to the small distance from the anus to the opening of the urethra and vagina. Prolonged use of products without regular changes or poor hygiene of the genitals in combination with weakened immune defenses can lead to a significant increase in the risk of the spread of microorganisms. In addition, tight clothing and underwear can increase the risk of microbial migration. The density of microorganisms in most women is within normal limits, which are acceptable in a healthy environment in the area of the female external genital organs. Density values in most cases are small for potentially pathogenic species like Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and C. albicans. However, if undesirable species are present even in small quantities, there is the possibility that in some situations, microorganisms can reproduce.

A natural part of preventing infections in the urogenital zone is improved personal hygiene. However, it may not be appropriate to wash the genitals and lower abdomen with concentrated soap or bactericidal substances and, therefore, it may be difficult for a person to reduce the risk of infection to an adequate level by conventional means. At times, it may be difficult for a woman to replace products intended for women. Long-term use of products intended for women can also lead to an increased risk of infections due to the accumulation of microorganisms in the product. Clogging and temperature can contribute to the growth of microorganisms in the product and on the skin and mucous membrane of the user.

Traditionally, the above problems have been solved by treating the resulting infections with conventional antibiotics. However, frequent antibiotic treatment can lead to the development of refractory strains of bacteria, which can make it difficult to continue treating new infections. An additional problem with antibiotic treatment is that many people are hypersensitive to antibiotics. In addition, antibiotics also harm the beneficial skin and vaginal flora, making re-infection more likely.

Description of the Related Art

As mentioned above, the traditional way to solve the above problems is to treat the patient with conventional antibiotics.

In addition, it was proposed to use lactic acid bacteria due to their inhibitory effect on pathogenic microorganisms. It was found that the use of such lactic acid bacteria reduces the occurrence of infections both on the skin and on the mucous membranes.

WO 2004/105822, for example, describes the use of absorbent articles provided with lactic acid forming bacteria. Bacterial cells are transferred to the user's skin and prevent microbial infection and provide treatment for microbial infection in the urogenital zone and on the skin.

EP 1032434 B1 discloses an absorbent article that contains lactic acid bacteria; bacteria are located with the possibility of transferring them to the skin of the user to worsen the conditions for the existence of undesirable strains of microorganisms.

In addition, in the document US 2004/0192642 A1 disclosed a composition for the treatment and prevention of urogenital infections. The composition is introduced into the vagina of a mammal by means of an applicator in the form of a syringe or through a tampon.

WO 97/02846 further discloses a swab with added microorganisms to prevent urinary tract infections.

The use of tampons or applicators to be inserted into the vagina to prevent urogenital infections may be considered burdensome by some people. Lactic acid bacteria require special protection during storage. Therefore, a more stable solution to the problem is preferred.

As discussed in the introduction, any undesirable species present in the urogenital zone, even in small quantities, make it possible that in some situations the number of pathogenic microorganisms may increase. Thus, there is a need for products that inhibit microorganisms and are designed to prevent the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone. The present invention is intended to solve these problems.

Summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article intended for use by women, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner intended for everyday use, or an incontinence guard or microorganism-inhibiting article intended for use by women that is prophylactically reduces the risk of urogenital infections by preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms from the anal area tverstiya the urogenital area.

This objective is achieved by the present invention due to an absorbent product intended for use by women, which contains at least one first microorganism-inhibiting element or section designed (s) to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone in the direction from the rear edge to the front edge of the product.

The present invention also relates to a microorganism-inhibiting product intended for use by women, which contains at least one first microorganism-inhibiting element or section designed to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone in the direction from the rear edge to the front edge of the product.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a kit comprising: a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner, for everyday use, or an incontinence guard, and b) a microorganism-inhibiting article comprising a first microorganism-inhibiting element or section.

The invention further relates to a kit comprising: a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner for everyday use, or an incontinence guard that has a mark on the top sheet, b) a composition for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms; and c) means for applying the composition to the label on the top sheet.

The absorbent article and the microorganism-retaining article are intended to be used in such a way that the first element or section is placed at the perineum of the wearer during use, and as a result, migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone is prevented or reduced through the skin of the perineum.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows the anatomical section of a woman's body, illustrating the genitals.

Figure 2 shows an absorbent article in the form of a sanitary towel in accordance with the invention, shown above.

Figure 3 shows the microorganism-inhibiting article of the invention shown above.

4 shows another embodiment of a sanitary napkin in accordance with the invention.

Figure 5 shows a cross section of an absorbent article in accordance with one embodiment of the invention and a section [body] of a woman illustrating the genitals.

6 shows a cross section of an absorbent article in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.

7 shows a cross section of a sanitary towel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 shows a sanitary napkin in accordance with the invention.

Fig. 9 shows a panty liner for everyday use in accordance with the invention.

10 shows a sanitary napkin in accordance with the invention having a stiffening element.

As for the elements indicated by a three-digit reference number, it should be indicated that the same last two digits were used for similar components, but the first digit differs from figure to figure. Reference numbers (positions) are not shown in all figures, while the corresponding components (parts, elements) can be found in another figure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

To further clarify the invention, reference is made to FIG. 1. Figure 1 shows the anatomical section of a woman's body, illustrating the genitals. The external opening 1 of the urethra, the vagina 2 and the anal opening are shown. The crotch 4 is located between the anal opening 3 and the vagina 2. Points A and B are shown, which correspond respectively to the front and back of the crotch zone. The distance between the anus 3 and the vagina 2, that is, between points A and B, in women is approximately 1 to 4 cm. Microorganisms from the anus can migrate from the anus 3 through the perineum 4, that is, from point B to point A , and then reach the urogenital zone, that is, the vagina 2 and the opening 1 of the urethra. Such migration of microorganisms in certain circumstances can cause urinary tract infections and / or vaginal infections. The purpose of the present invention is to reduce the risk of infection by avoiding such migration by keeping microorganisms from migrating from the anus 3 to the urogenital area through the perineum 4. This is achieved by absorbing products or microorganically inhibiting products that are adapted to match the female anatomy.

The present invention relates to an absorbent article 111 intended for use by women, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence protector, and FIG. 2 shows a sanitary napkin that prevents or reduces migration microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone during use and which contains a liquid-permeable top sheet 112, designed to direct it to the carrier during use, and a liquid-impervious bottom sheet (not shown), designed to direct it to the underpants of the user during use, said product having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, two substantially longitudinal side edges 113 114, one substantially transverse front edge 115, one substantially transverse rear edge 116, front portion 117, rear portion 118 and crotch portion 119 located between rear portion 118 and front portion 11 7, wherein the crotch portion 119 is divided into a front portion 121 and a rear portion 122 by a center line 120, the crotch portion 119 having a length of from about 7 to 12 cm, the product comprising at least one first microorganism-retarding element 123 or section, having a front border 124, a rear border 125, and two side borders 126, wherein the first element 123 or section is positioned so that it (s) will be placed on the perineum of the carrier during use for prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms mov in the direction from the rear edge 116 to the front edge 115 of the product, and the first element 123 is located on the top sheet 112 or the first section is included in the top sheet 112. In addition, the first element 123 or section is located (s) so that the front border 124 the first element 123 or section is located on the rear section 122 of the crotch portion 119. In accordance with one embodiment, the front border 124 of the first element 123 or section is at a distance of approximately 0.5 to 3 cm from the center line 120 of the crotch portion 119 of the given center line 120. The first member 123 is illustrated in FIG. The section is in the same place when viewed from above.

To illustrate the crotch portion 119, the front border 127 and the posterior border 128 of the crotch portion 119 are shown in dashed lines. In addition, the crotch portion 119 is divided by a center line 120 to show the boundary between the front portion 121 and the rear portion 122 of the crotch portion 119. The center line 120 is substantially in the middle of the crotch portion 119. The placement of the first element 123 or section on the product depends from how the product will be located relative to the media. The placement on the media varies depending on which product is being considered. However, the crotch portion is always intended to be placed at the wearer's crotch, and the first element or section should always be (should) be placed at the crotch. In addition, points A, B, and C corresponding to the points in FIG. 1 are also marked. This shows that the first element or section is intended to place it (s) between points A and B, that is, on the perineum.

The absorbent article in accordance with the present invention may further comprise an absorbent layer between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. The absorbent layer is preferably formed from cellulose fibers, although other natural materials such as cotton fibers or peat (peat moss) can be used. Alternatively, absorbent synthetic fibers or a mixture of natural fibers and synthetic fibers can be used. The absorbent layer may also contain open pore foam. The absorbent layer may also include superabsorbent, that is, a polymer that is capable of absorbing the liquid in an amount several times greater than its own mass. In addition, the absorbent layer may contain additives that inhibit the spread of odors, such as zeolites, silica, activated carbon and lactic acid bacteria.

Conventional materials are used in the bottom sheet and the top sheet of the absorbent article.

In addition, the present invention relates to a microorganism-retarding article 211 intended for use by women, shown in FIG. 3, for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone during use, comprising a top sheet 212 for guiding it to the wearer during use, and possibly a liquid-impervious lower sheet (not shown) designed to direct it to the wearer's underpants time of use, wherein said article 211 has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, two substantially longitudinal lateral edges 213, 214, one substantially transverse front edge 215, one substantially transverse rear edge 216, front part 217 and rear part 218, wherein it comprises at least one first microorganism-inhibiting element 223 or section having a (front) front border 224 and a rear border 225 and two side borders 226, wherein the first element 223 or section is intended (a) to place him (her) at the perineum media during use to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms in the direction from the rear edge 216 to the front edge 215 of the product, with the first element 223 located on the top sheet 212 or the first section included in the top sheet 212. The front part 217 and the rear part 218 are separated by a central line 230. In accordance with one embodiment, the first element 223 or section is located in front of part 217 of the product.

Figure 3 shows the boundaries A, B and C and they correspond to points A, B and C in figure 1. They are used to illustrate how a microorganism-stopping article should be positioned relative to the wearer so that the first element 223 or section is exposed relative to the crotch 4. The microorganism-stopping article 211 in accordance with the present invention should be placed so that the transverse leading edge 215 is directly behind the vagina 2, at point A. Then the first element 223 or section will be placed (s) at the perineum, as a result of which the microorganisms will be kept from rohoda from the anus to the urogenital area, i.e. the vagina 2 and the urethra 1, in the direction from the rear edge 216 to the front edge 215 of the product. Border C is also shown on the article of FIG. 3, but it is not necessary that the article extends to the anus. The microorganism-holding product is designed so that women can easily use it, they can use the product near the perineum, feeling how to place the product directly behind the vagina 2. Thus, despite the novelty of this new product intended for use by women, it will easy to use in practice. It has a small size and should be placed only in the crotch area; if required, it can also be so long that it extends beyond the perineum.

The topsheet 212 preferably consists of a soft, skin-friendly material. This top sheet 212 may comprise a sheet of nonwoven fabric of various types. Alternative materials in this regard are perforated plastic films, plastic mesh materials, knitted, crocheted, low density, thin paper, woven or foamed materials, and combinations and laminates of these types of materials. The plastic may be a thermoplastic, such as polyethylene. The non-woven material may contain natural fibers, such as cellulosic or cotton, although alternatively it may contain synthetic fibers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane fibers, polyester, nylon or regenerated cellulose, or a mixture of different fibers. All materials used to create liquid-permeable outer sheets in absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, panty liners or incontinence guards, can be used on top sheet 212, and it should be understood that the above the materials are given merely as an example. These materials can also be used for top sheet 112 in an absorbent article in accordance with the present invention.

The liquid impervious bottom sheet may consist of a flexible material, preferably a thin film of polyethylene, polypropylene or polyester, although it may also comprise a laminate of nonwoven material and a liquid impermeable material. All materials that are commonly used to form liquid impermeable, lower sheets for absorbent articles can be used. The bottom sheet can easily be breathable. In addition, these materials can also be used in the bottom sheet of the absorbent article.

In a microorganism-inhibiting article, the top sheet may be a sheet of the type used in absorbent articles, and the bottom sheet may correspond to the usual bottom sheets used in absorbent articles.

The distance between the transverse edges 215, 216 is from 2 cm to 6 cm and the distance between the longitudinal edges 213, 214 is from 3 cm to 5 cm in a microorganism-inhibiting article. In the microorganism-inhibiting article of FIG. 3, the front transverse edge 215 is shorter than the rear transverse edge 216. This design is adapted to the anatomy of a woman. However, it is not necessary that the product has this shape. If the product is symmetrical, it is preferable to indicate in a simple and clear manner which part of the product is front or back to allow the user to align the product in the correct manner on the crotch. The first retaining element or section may be shown (s) on the top sheet by means of a mark or coloring so that it is clear how to use the product.

The use of a microorganism-inhibiting article or an absorbent article in accordance with the present invention has the effect that microorganisms are prevented from migrating from the anus 3 to the urogenital zone when the article is placed so that the first element or section is located at the perineum of the carrier. Through close physical contact between the article and the perineal skin, a microbial barrier will be formed on the perineal skin. Thus, the first element or section will prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone in the direction from the rear edge to the front edge of the product. The barrier for moving microorganisms can be formed either by tight contact between the first element or section of the product and the skin of the perineum, or by transferring some material from the first element or section to the skin of the perineum, as a result of which a barrier forms on the skin of the perineum. Thus, the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone is reduced or prevented. This will be further described below.

When the term “product” is used alone [without other words], it is intended to encompass both a microorganism-retarding product and an absorbent product. In certain specific embodiments, it is clarified which particular article is being described. The first element or section is made in the same way both in the microorganism-inhibiting article and in the absorbent article, but the articles themselves have different designs.

In accordance with the present invention, the first element or section comprises a material selected from one or more substances from a hydrophobic material, an antimicrobial agent, and a positively charged material.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first element or section comprises a hydrophobic material. Such a material may, for example, be coated onto a top sheet or included in a first sheet. If material is included, it is believed that the restraining material is contained in a section of the top sheet. If a hydrophobic material is applied to the top sheet, it is believed that the material is contained in the element located on the top sheet.

When a hydrophobic material is used in the first element or section, it can be transferred to the skin of the wearer and can thus act both on the skin and on the product to inhibit the migration of microorganisms. The hydrophobic material should be selected so that the material can be transferred to the skin of the carrier accordingly. The hydrophobic material may be semi-solid at a temperature of from about 30 to 32 ° C. In addition, it may be semi-solid to a temperature of approximately 34 ° C. When the material is semi-solid at ambient temperature, its migration is minimized when the product is not in use. It is important that the material does not migrate on the top sheet, since the absorption of liquid through the top sheet can be reduced or prevented due to the hydrophobic material. It is also important that the material does not migrate further down in the absorbent article, as this can adversely affect the absorbency. Of particular importance is that there is close (tight) contact between the first element or section and the skin of the carrier, or that material from the first element or section is transferred to the skin so as to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone.

It is important that the material is transferred to the skin, but it must not leak on the skin or on the product. Fluid materials can be moved to unintended places, drained from the carrier, or even spread on the product, the latter being undesirable as regards fluid intake by the top sheet and absorption capacity of the absorbent layer. Therefore, the material must have an appropriate viscosity so that it is not smeared. The corresponding viscosity values are 5-15 Pa · s at 35 ° C. The method of measuring these values is implemented at a rate of change of 1 ° C / min, a shear rate of 9.25 s ^-1 and within the measurement interval from 20 to 50 ° C.

The hydrophobic material has a contact angle greater than 90 °, and should be substantially free of water. The material may be selected from lipids, fatty alcohols, esters of fatty acids, polyalcohols, complex lipids, waxes (paraffins) and polysiloxanes and mixtures thereof. Lipids may be, for example, paraffins or triglycerides. Examples of paraffins are paraffin oil or petroleum jelly. Examples of triglycerides are refined and / or hydrated triglycerides of animal or vegetable origin with preferred carbon chain lengths of up to C-18 [18 carbon atoms] (for example, milk fat, Coconut nocifera coconut oil, Elaeis guineeis palm kernel oil), animal or vegetable fat C-18 unsaturated fatty acids (e.g. Rhus succesdanes vegetable wax, hard animal fat, Glycerin soya soybean oil, Arachais hypogaea peanut butter, Zea mays corn oil, Helanthus annus sunflower oil, grapes Vitis vinifera oil, Carthamus tinctorius safflower oil, Prunnus amygdalus dulcis sweet almond oil, Corylus Americana hazelnut oil, Juglans regia walnut oil, Olea europasa olive oil, Persea gratissima avocado oil, tesamum butter, tesam butter Tallol, Gopssypium cottonseed oil, Elaesis guineensis palm oil, Oryza sativa rice oil, Canola rapeseed oil, Prunus armeniaca apricot kernel oil, Theobroma sao cocoa butter, Butyrospermum parkii shea butter, Triticum vulgum wheat fat, Triticum latum wheat fat ) or fat of animal or vegetable origin with carbon and chains with more than 18 carbon atoms (e.g. Cera alba beeswax, Shellac sega shellac, meadow limnanthes alba penny seed oil, Brassica capmestris rapeseed oil, Borago officinalis cucumber (essential) oil, Linum usitatissimum linseed oil, Ricinus communis ricin oil , veronia veronia galamensis oil, jojoba oil Buxus chinensis, Euphorbia cera candle wax, ongokea ^{x /} Ongokea gore oil).

Fatty alcohols can be selected from straight or branched chain alcohols with 12 to 32 carbon atoms. Examples are cetyl alcohol or stearyl alcohol. Fatty acid esters can have 12-32 carbon atoms and, for example, can be selected from methyl palmitate, methyl stearate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, octyl palmitate, octyl stearate. Polyalcohols can be selected, for example, from sugar cane alcohols and polyglycerols. Examples of complex lipids are phospholipids or sphingolipids (ceramides). Waxes can be animal waxes and can be selected, for example, from beeswax or lanolin. They can be waxes of mineral origin and can be selected from ozokerite or ceresin. In addition, they can be plant waxes, for example, Carnauba or Candelilla. Polysiloxanes can be straight, branched or cyclic and can be selected, for example, from polydimethylsiloxane (dimethicone) or polydiethylsiloxane.

The hydrophobic material may be applied in any suitable form. It can be applied by spraying, coating by means of a slit device, or by printing. In addition, the top sheet may be impregnated with the material or the material may be introduced into the top sheet. The material can also be applied in the form of granules. As mentioned above, the material is contained in the first element or section. A section is considered as part of the top sheet, while an element is considered as a separate component superimposed on the top sheet. A section may be “attached” by depositing a hydrophobic material onto a top sheet or by any other appropriate method.

The concentration of the hydrophobic material may be from 0.1 to 100 g / m ² in the treated zone or 10-100 g / m ² in another embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

Microorganisms from the anus cannot move out of the anus and pass through the perineum when the first element or section is in close contact with the skin of the wearer. As already mentioned, the migration of microorganisms on the product and especially on the skin of the carrier is prevented. The hydrophobic material will prevent or reduce the movement of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone, that is, in the forward direction, which is shown by arrow I in Figures 2 and 3. The movement of microorganisms on the skin of the carrier and on the microorganism-retarding product can be prevented, or only on an absorbent article or microorganism-inhibiting article, or only on the skin during use. However, it is preferred that migration to the perineal skin is prevented or reduced.

It is believed that the reason why the hydrophobic material functions as a restraining medium for microorganisms such as bacteria is because the bacteria will adhere to the hydrophobic material. Many bacteria, in particular many pathogenic bacteria, have hydrophobic zones on the cell membrane and / or hydrophobic protrusions in the cell membrane (pilli, fimbriae (filiform structures on the surface of some bacterial cells), etc.) and therefore strongly adhere to hydrophobic surfaces. Therefore, bacteria will not pass through the first element or section located on the perineum during use. Typically, bacteria from the anus may extend toward the perineum. When using the product in accordance with the invention, a significant number of bacteria moving to the urogenital zone can reach the first element or section and will be "captured" by the material in the first microorganism-retarding element or section. Bacteria can also be "captured" by material from the first element or section that has been transferred to the skin of the carrier.

According to another embodiment, the first element or section comprises an antimicrobial agent. The antimicrobial agent may be selected from chitosan, metal oxides, metals or metal salts like silver and silver salts, copper and copper salts, copper acetate, quaternary ammonium salts, chlorhexidine, parabens (methyl, ethyl and propyl esters of para-benzoic acid) , pH buffering materials, disodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and other chelating agents, chlorhexidinedicluconate, amorolfine, bacitracin (an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis), benzalko Nichloride, benzethonium chloride, cetrimide (cetavlon), fusidic acid, gentian violet (gentian violet, methylrosanilin chloride), hexachlorophene, hexylresorcinol, imidazole derivatives (e.g. bifonazole, econazole, ketoconazole, iodonodoimodiodorodolimonodoimide, iodonodolum, iodonodolum terbinafine, triclosan, hydrogen peroxide or halogenated phenylene compounds. The antimicrobial agent may also be an acidic material, that is, a material having a low pH, also called a pH adjusting agent. PH adjusting agents can be selected from citric acid, adipic acid, azelaic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, gluconic acid, glutaric acid, levulenic acid, glycolic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, sebacic acid, sodium citrate and salts of phosphoric acid, carboxymethyl cellulose, oxidized cellulose, sulphoethyl cellulose and phoxyphorylated cellulose. The antimicrobial agent may be coated onto the top sheet or incorporated into the top sheet or applied to the top sheet in any suitable manner. The agent, for example, can be applied by spraying, gluing, printing, coating, such as coating with a slit device, onto the top sheet or introduced into the top sheet if it is in such a state that the agent can penetrate the top sheet. It can also be applied through the use of fibers or films including this agent. As with the hydrophobic material, it is important to have tight contact between the first element or section and the skin of the user for elements or sections containing an antimicrobial agent. The tool can also be transferred to the skin in the same way as a hydrophobic substance, and thereby can affect the skin of the carrier. The appropriate concentration necessary to inhibit the movement of bacteria depends largely on the nature of the antimicrobial agent. The concentration can range from parts per million to grams. One skilled in the art will be able to select the appropriate amount to achieve a given antimicrobial effect.

Antimicrobials can kill many types of microorganisms. Therefore, it is imperative that the antimicrobial agent and, therefore, the first element or section do not come into contact with the genitals or urethra and thereby do not destroy the normal flora in these areas.

Acid antimicrobial agents can be activated by means of moisture that will be present in the absorbent article or the microorganism-inhibiting article after some time, for example, in the form of sweat, menstrual flow, urine or other body exudates.

Microorganisms moving from the anus to the urogenital zone will be inhibited and / or destroyed by the antimicrobial agent contained in the first element or section. This will reduce the risk of urogenital infections, as the concentration of unwanted bacteria in the urogenital zone will remain low.

The antimicrobial agent may be encapsulated in a hydrophobic material. A hydrophobic material may be selected to protect the antimicrobial agent. In this case, the hydrophobic material should be fusible to allow the release of antimicrobial agents. Melting may occur when the first element is in contact with the skin of the carrier. Thus, the melting temperature of the hydrophobic material should be less than 37 ° C. The hydrophobic material can also serve both as a shell-forming material and as a material for transferring an antimicrobial agent to the skin of a carrier. In this case, the hydrophobic material should have the same properties as the hydrophobic material used as the first element or section. It can be semi-solid at a temperature of approximately 30-32 ° C. In addition, it may be semi-solid to a temperature of approximately 34 ° C. Enclosure of the antimicrobial agent may be useful if the antimicrobial agent needs protection for any reason before use. One reason may be that it is sensitive to moisture or air.

Another embodiment of the invention is an article in which the first element or section contains a positively charged material for trapping microorganisms, such as bacteria. Bacteria have a negative charge, so that they will attract and adhere to the positively charged material. Examples of positively charged materials are fibers that have been modified. Similar fibers are disclosed in document WO 2004/062703. Additional examples are materials such as non-woven fabric or tissue paper or fabric treated with a positively charged polymer. Preferred polycationic polymers are preferably selected from homo- or copolymers of at least one monomer containing a functional group that includes a nitrogen atom that can be protonated. They may have linear or branched structures.

Cationic polyelectrolytes can be selected from

a) cationic or cationically modified polysaccharides, such as cationic starch derivatives, cellulose derivatives, pectin, galactoglucomannan, chitin, chitosan or alginate;

b) a homo- or copolymer of polyallylamine, possibly containing modifier units (corresponding polyallylamine modifier units are known, for example, from document WO 00/31150), in particular polyallylamine hydrochloride (RAS);

c) polyethyleneimine (PEI);

d) a homo- or copolymer of polyvinylamine, optionally containing modifier units;

e) a homo- or copolymer of poly (vinyl pyridine) or polyvinyl pyridine salt, including their N-alkyl derivatives;

f) a homo- or copolymer of polyvinylpyrrolidone, polydiallyl dialkyl, such as poly (N, N-diallyl-N, N-di-C ₁ -C ₄ -alkylammonium halide), as shown in US 2004/0047979 A1, in particular poly (N, N-diallyl-N, N-dimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA);

g) a homo- or copolymer of a quaternized di-C ₁ -C ₄ -alkyl-aminoethyl acrylate or methacrylate, for example, a homopolymer of a poly (2-hydroxy-3-methacryloylpropyl-tri-C ₁ -C ₂ -alkylammonium salt), such as poly ( 2-hydroxy-3-methacryloylpropyltrimethylammonium chloride), or quaternized poly (2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) or quaternized poly (vinylpyrrolidone-co-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate);

h) poly (vinylbenzyl-tri-C ₁ -C ₄ -alkylammonium salt), for example, poly (vinylbenzyl-tri-methylammonium chloride);

i) polymers formed by reaction between ditretic amines or secondary amines and dihaloalkanes, including a polymer of an aliphatic or araliphatic dihalo and an aliphatic N, N, N ′, N′-tetra-C ₁ -C ₄ -alkyl-alkylenediamine, for example, a polymer ( a) propylene-1,3-dichloride or dibromide or p-xylylenedichloride or dibromide and (b) N, N, N ′, N′-tetramethyl-1,4-tetramethylenediamine;

j) POLYQUAD®, similar to that disclosed in document EP-A-456467;

or

k) a polyaminoamide (PAMAM), for example a linear polyaminoamide or a dendrimer of a polyaminoamide (polyaminoamide with a cascade molecule), such as a dendrimer of Starburst ™ polyaminoamide with an amine end (Aldrich);

l) homo- and copolymers of cationic acrylamide and products of their modification, such as poly (acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride) or glyoxal-acrylamide resins;

m) polymers formed by polymerization of N- (dialkylaminoalkyl) acrylamide monomers;

n) condensation products among dicyandiamides, formaldehyde and ammonium salts;

o) typical wet strength improvers used in papermaking, such as urea-formaldehyde resins, melamine-formaldehyde resins, polyvinylamine, polyureide-formaldehyde resins, glyoxalacrylamide resins, and cationic materials obtained by the reaction of polynalkylene polyamines with polysaccharides such as natural starch as well as 3-hydroxyazetidinium-ion-containing resins, which are obtained by reactions of nitrogen-containing compounds (e.g., ammonia, primary th or secondary amine or nitrogen-containing polymers) with epichlorohydrine such as poliaminoamidepihlorgidrinovye resin poliaminepihlorgidrinovye aminopolimerepihlorgidrinovye resins and resins like those mentioned, for example, in U.S. Patent 3,998,690.

Preferred polycationic polymers are cationic or cationically modified polysaccharides such as starch or cellulose derivatives, chitin, chitosan or alginate, homo- or copolymers of polyallylamine, homo- or copolymers of polyvinylamine or polyethyleneimine.

In accordance with one embodiment, a positively charged polymer with hydrophobic side chains is particularly preferred. The polymer can be applied by spraying, coating by means of rollers or slot devices, wherein the coating is applied in the form of aqueous solutions, and then the solution is dried. Bacteria adhere to the fibers and remain in place. Migration of bacteria will be reduced or prevented, as bacteria are captured in or on the first element or section, therefore, bacteria will be immobilized on the fibrous material. Contact between the product and the perineal skin is required to capture bacteria on the user's skin.

The effect of immobilization can be influenced by modifying the fibers through functional groups capable of interacting with bacterial cell walls. Such functional groups include cationic groups and carbonyl groups, which can be introduced into the fibers through direct chemical modification of the fibrous material. Other examples of functional groups are ammonium groups, phosphonium groups, sulfonium groups and certain metal-containing groups. These groups are electropositive. The functional groups may be the same throughout the fiber, or the fiber may contain different functional groups.

The modified fiber may be a cellulosic fiber. In addition, the fiber can also be synthetic, such as fiber made of polyester, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyamide, a lactic acid polymer and the like. Fibers can form some kind of non-woven or woven fabric.

The fibers can be located in the form of a part, that is, a section, of a top sheet or in the form of a strip, that is, an element, of a positively charged material, and in this case are placed on the top sheet. Therefore, the positively charged material is located in the first element or section in accordance with the present invention. One skilled in the art will be able to select the appropriate concentration. EP 1583567 provides examples of appropriate concentrations of positive charges and the amount of aldehyde functional groups.

The concentrations mentioned for different materials depend on what type of product they are. A large incontinence product, for example, may require more hydrophobic material, an antimicrobial agent, or a positively charged material than a panty liner. Concentrations also vary depending on which material is used as the first element or section. When considering concentrations, one skilled in the art can also determine what concentration is required to achieve the desired result.

Next, the construction of the first element or section is considered. The presence of bacteria, such as E. coli E. coli, in the urogenital zone depends on the distance from the anus. The spread of E. coli E. coli in the perineum is approximately 3 times greater than in the labia majora. Therefore, it is very important to have a barrier, barrier or obstruction between the anus and the urogenital area. The distance between the anus and the vagina is approximately 1 to 4 cm in different people. The size of the first elements and sections is adapted to this size.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the distance between the side borders 126, 226 of the first element or section is at least 2 cm. This distance of 2 cm corresponds quite well to the width of the crotch at which microorganisms can migrate. The first element 123, 223 or section having a distance of 2 cm between the lateral borders 126, 226 will function as a very good barrier when it (s) is located in close contact with the perineum of the wearer. The first element 123, 223 or section will reduce or prevent the migration of microorganisms through the perineum. The upper limit of the distance between the side borders 126, 226 of the first element 123, 223 or section corresponds to the width of the microorganism-inhibiting article or absorbent article. Therefore, the side borders 126, 226 of the first element 123, 223 or sections may coincide with the longitudinal side edges 113, 114, 213, 214 of the product. Product width will vary by product. The incontinence protector, for example, may be wider than the panty liner.

According to one embodiment, the distance between the front border 124, 224 and the rear border 125, 225 of the first element 123, 223 or section is at least 0.5 cm. The distance is suitable to prevent or reduce microbial migration. In a further embodiment, the distance between the front 124, 224 and the rear 125, 225 borders may be at least 1 cm, or preferably at least 2 cm, depending on which method of trapping microorganisms is used in the first element or section. It also depends on the type of product the first element or section is used in. The distance between the front border and the rear border can be up to 4 cm in a microorganism-inhibiting article. It may even be a distance of approximately 5-6 cm, since the first element or section may extend beyond the crotch area of the user. In accordance with one embodiment, the first element or section may also include or cover the entire top sheet of the microorganism-inhibiting article. In an absorbent article, the distance between the front and rear borders of the first element or section can be up to 4 cm, as in a microorganism-holding article. In addition, the distance between the front and rear borders can be as much as 6 cm. In this case, the first element or section will extend back towards the anus during use, that is, beyond the perineum.

The first element or section in accordance with the invention provides a barrier, barrier or obstacle for the migration of microbes from the anus to the urogenital area of the carrier. The migration of microorganisms is prevented both on the product inhibiting microorganisms or an absorbent product, and on the skin of the carrier. It is very important to have tight contact between the skin of the perineum of the wearer and the product. This ensures that a barrier is formed that impedes the movement of microorganisms. Migration on the skin of the perineum can be prevented by contact with the first element or section that holds microorganisms. Alternatively, the first element or section may allow the transfer of the microorganism-retarding material to the skin of the carrier. It also requires tight contact between the product and the skin of the wearer.

Another embodiment is shown in FIG. 4. This sanitary napkin partially corresponds to the sanitary napkin of FIG. 3, while certain parts of the sanitary napkin of FIG. 4 are not shown. In addition to having a first microorganism-inhibiting element 323 or section, article 311 also contains a second microorganism-inhibiting element 329 or section having a (front) front border 330 and a rear border 331 and two side borders 332, 333, with the second element 329 or section extending back from the rear border 325 of the first element 323 or section. The front border 330 of the second element 329 or section coincides in this case with the rear border 325 of the first element 323 or section, but this is not significant. The front border 330 of the second element 329 or sections may be in front of or behind the rear border 325 of the first element 323 or sections. Therefore, the second element 329 or section may partially overlap the first element 323 or section. Points A, B and C are marked in the figure and correspond to the points in figure 1 when using the product.

In one embodiment, in accordance with the invention, the article comprises a first element 323 or a first section containing a hydrophobic substance or positively charged material, and a second element 329 or a section containing an antimicrobial agent. The reason that the antimicrobial agent is placed in the second element 329 or sections is because some antimicrobial agents can disrupt the normal flora in the urogenital zone. Therefore, it is better that such a tool be closer to the anus, as a result of which the risk of microflora disturbance in the urogenital zone is reduced. An antimicrobial agent inhibits bacteria on the skin near the anus. Smaller molecules, such as iodophors or metal salts, are most appropriate to be placed on the second element 329 or sections, since in this case they will be quite far from the urogenital zone, so that migration to the urogenital zone and subsequent disturbance of the vaginal flora will be minimal.

The second element or section will have the same dimensions as the first element or section, that is, the distance between the front and rear boundaries is at least 0.5 cm, and in other embodiments, the distance is at least 1.0 cm or at least 2.0 cm. The distance between the side borders is at least 2 cm.

As shown in FIG. 7, a third element 650 may also be located in the absorbent layer 653. The embodiment of FIG. 7 is a sanitary napkin. The third element 650 is in the form of a film or fibrous layer extending between the longitudinal edges of the absorbent article 611 and extending vertically between the upper sheet 612 and the lower sheet 652. The first element 623 or section is shown on the upper sheet 612. Microorganisms from the anus can migrate through the absorbing layer 653 from the corresponding zone of the anus to the corresponding urogenital zone. To prevent this, the third element 650, located in the absorbent layer 653, can protect the absorbent layer corresponding to the urogenital zone from microbial contamination. The third element 650 may be a plastic film, such as a polyethylene film, which prevents microorganisms from moving to the other side of the plastic film. In this case, there will be no movement of liquid or microorganisms between the parts of the absorbent layer separated by the third element 650. The third element 650 may also be a fibrous layer containing a positively charged material, similar to the above. In this case, the bacteria will be attracted to the positively charged material, as described above. The third element 650 may also consist of modified fibers, which may be positively charged fibers or fibers, including metal salts or triclosan. The fibers may be natural or synthetic. In addition, points A, B and C corresponding to FIG. 1 are shown, and a center line 620 is also shown. A front border 627 and a rear crotch border 628 are also shown to illustrate the position of the first element 623 and the third element 650 in the product of FIG. 7 . The crotch portion is also divided into a front portion 621 and a rear portion 622.

The product may contain one (one) or several first, second or third elements or sections in accordance with the present invention.

It is important that the restraining element or restraining section does not come in contact with the urogenital zone of the user. This is especially important when the element or section contains an antimicrobial agent. The reason is the same as mentioned above, that is, the possibility of a violation of the natural flora in the urogenital zone. Natural healthy vaginal flora is an important component of infection protection. In addition, the absorption capacity of the article may be adversely affected if the material or agent covers most of the top sheet of the absorbent article. However, there is a difference between a microorganism-inhibiting article and an absorbent article. The microorganism-retaining article does not necessarily absorb liquid and is small compared to the absorbent article. This means that it is easier to place the microorganism-retarding article so that the first element or section is located at the perineal zone and not at the urogenital zone. Therefore, the material or agent will not violate the flora of the urogenital zone. Therefore, the first element or section may include or cover the entire top sheet of the microorganism-inhibiting article.

The element or section may be protected by a protective coating or film, such as a plastic film. This, for example, can provide prevention of leakage of hydrophobic material and protection of the antimicrobial material from moving it to other parts of the product. An element or section will also be protected from the environment if it (s) is sensitive (sensitive) to moisture or air for any reason. The coating film should be removed before use.

The product in accordance with the present invention may contain means for mounting on the bottom sheet, on the side directed from the top sheet, in the form of glue. The glue is used to fasten to the user's underpants while using the product. The glue may be a pressure sensitive hot melt adhesive that glues when pressed. However, other industrially manufactured and commercially available pressure-sensitive adhesives can be used, as well as adhesives that provide cold-pressure adhesives, such as acrylate adhesive, usually combined with additives, such as styrene-butadiene copolymers, which increase the stickiness of an adhesive such as polyterpene or hot-melt adhesive without adhesive. The fastening means may be those already known in the art. In addition, they can be covered with protective films. When the absorbent product is packaged, the adhesives are covered with a protective layer, such as removable paper, containing silicone-coated paper and used to protect adhesives from contaminants such as dust and similar substances, and also to protect the adhesive from drying before use. The absorbent article is rationally provided with a central protective layer that is not removed until the absorbent article is attached to the inside of the panties, and with a protective layer on the adhesive, the protective layer being removed before the article is placed in the panties in a predetermined position.

The microorganism-retaining article may, as mentioned, be attached to the underpants or clothing of the wearer or to the wearer. If attached to the wearer, it is intended to be placed at the perineum. A woman using the product may feel how to place it, since it is easy to find out where the crotch begins, right behind the vagina. In this case, the product may contain means for attaching to the top sheet in the form of glue or sticky means covering the entire top sheet or parts of the top sheet. The adhesive can be applied in the form of stripes or dots on the top sheet. The sticky agent may contain polysaccharides, for example pectin. Another example of an agent to be used as a sticky agent is alginate. To avoid unwanted growth of microorganisms in the sticky product, it must have a pH of pH below 5. This can be achieved by adding a pH reducing agent in the form of an acid. Alternatively, an antimicrobial agent such as chitosan or peroxides may be added. Silicone gel can also be used as an adhesive for fixing either on the edges or on a part of the top sheet. The carrier skin mount described above can also be used with an absorbent article if it is a panty liner for everyday use. However, the panty liner is preferably provided with a mark of some kind for proper placement relative to the crotch.

The microorganism-holding product may be in the form of cotton wool (soft pad). Cotton wool may have a hydrophobic material, an antimicrobial agent introduced into it, or it may be coated with a similar material or agent. In addition, cotton can be formed from a positively charged material or coated with a positively charged material, such as modified fibers, such as those described above.

The invention also relates to an embodiment in which the product comprises lactic acid-forming bacteria in at least a portion of the zone that contacts the urogenital zone of the carrier during use. This part of the zone, which contains the bacteria forming lactic acid, is located in front of the center line of the perineal part. In addition, the invention also relates to an embodiment in which the article comprises lactic acid bacteria in the anterior portion of the crotch portion. These bacteria enhance the user's own protective system due to the fact that they help maintain positive microflora, while the first element or section at the same time prevents or reduces the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the genitourinary tract.

Products and products can be packed in ordinary packaging. It is important that the packaging is water and moisture resistant if the element or section is moisture sensitive.

If it is not clear which part of the absorbent article is the front part, this should be explained to the user. For example, this may be shown on the product. It can be a simple mark that shows the front or back. Otherwise, the stopping element or section may be marked with a mark of some kind or by coloring. Preferably, the first element or section is marked (s), and this may have another purpose in accordance with the present invention, as will be described below.

As described above, it is very important that the microorganism-inhibiting article or absorbent article is placed in the correct place on the carrier. The first microorganism-inhibiting element or section should (should) be located at the perineum, since it is at this point that the element or section must (should) function. In addition, it is important that when using the product, the element or section does not come in contact with the urogenital zone, since this can have a destructive effect on the normal flora in the urogenital zone. To expose the first element or section of the product near the crotch in the correct manner, a label in the form of a pattern or a painted spot on the top sheet where the first element 123 or section is provided can be provided on the carrier. If the product’s shape does not automatically guarantee proper placement, a label may be necessary. If you refer to the figures, you should indicate that these labels and painted spots will coincide with the first elements or sections. When placing the product, a woman can place her finger on the bottom sheet directly under the mark or painted spot. Then the woman needs to align the finger with the crotch, while the product will be between the finger and the crotch. If more than one element or section is used, the first element or section should be aligned with the crotch. According to another embodiment, a mark in the form of a pattern or coloring (painted spot) may be provided on the bottom sheet, on the side facing away from the user, in the place corresponding to the first element 123 or section on the top sheet, to align the first element 123 or section product at the perineum of the carrier. In this embodiment, the woman can also place her finger on the mark, but on the same side on which the mark is located, and then align the finger with the crotch, with the product between the finger and the crotch. The label can also be used on a microorganism-inhibiting article.

A label can also be tangible. The mark can have, for example, a rough, knotted or curved surface, which helps the user to hold his finger on the mark when placing the product so that the first element or section is (s) aligned with the perineum of the carrier. The mark may also be in the form of a shallow cavity designed to receive a finger.

Next, an absorbent article in the form of a sanitary napkin is considered, and in FIG. 5, a sanitary napkin is shown along with an anatomical section of a woman illustrating the genitals. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, article 411 further comprises an anal bulge 440 at the rear, wherein the anal bulge has a front border 441 and a rear border 442 and two lateral borders not shown. The anal bulge 440 is designed to fit snugly against the [surface] of the anus 3 of the carrier during use to align the first element 423 or section with the perineum 4 of the carrier during use, the distance between the front border 441 of the anal bulge 440 and the center line 420 of the crotch portion 421 is at least about 1 cm, and the distance between the anterior 441 and posterior 442 boundaries of the anal bulge 440 is at least about 0.5 cm. The anal bulge has a honeycomb component of at least 0.5 cm relative to the base level of the product, while the base level in this case corresponds to the level of the top sheet of a flat product. The bulges are widely known, and one skilled in the art knows how to form a bulge, but in this case, location is critical in accordance with the present invention. The crotch portion 419 is located between the front border 427 and the rear border 428 shown in the figure.

As mentioned above, the purpose of the anal bulge is to fit snugly against the anus. This, in turn, ensures the achievement of the goal of placing the first element or section at the perineum during use. A woman using an absorbent article may feel (feel) when the article is not placed properly, since the article will be uncomfortable to wear if the anal bulge does not fit snugly against the anus. This embodiment ensures that the migration of microorganisms on the skin in the direction from the anus to the urogenital zone is prevented or reduced. The design of the absorbent product will provide contact of the first element or section with the perineum of the carrier. Therefore, migration on the skin is prevented.

As another embodiment in the form of a sanitary napkin, shown in FIG. 6, the article 511 comprises a vaginal bulge 543 having an anterior border 544 and a posterior border 545 and two lateral borders. The vaginal bulge 543 is designed to fit snugly against the vagina of the wearer during use to align the first element 523 or section with the perineum of the wearer during use, while the posterior border 545 of the vaginal bulge 543 is located in the interval between the points, one of which is at a distance of 0, 5 cm in front of the center line 520 of the crotch part 521, and the other at a distance of 0.5 cm behind the center line 520 of the crotch part 521, and the distance between the posterior border 545 and the anterior border 544 of the vaginal the convexity of 543 is at least about 0.5 cm. The distance between the rear border 545 and the front border 544 may be from about 0.5 to 10 cm and, in accordance with one embodiment, is from 0.5 to 3 cm. Height convexity is approximately 0.3 to 2 cm. The distance between the lateral borders is approximately 0.5 to 2 cm.

The purpose of the vaginal bulge is to ensure its tight fit to the vagina. This, in turn, ensures that the first element or section is placed at the perineum during use. A woman using an absorbent article may feel (feel) when the article is not placed properly, as the article will be uncomfortable to wear if the vaginal bulge does not fit snugly against the vagina.

The product may also contain two bulges, one of which is tight to the vagina, and one is tight to the area of the anus.

As mentioned previously, the crotch portion is intended to be placed at the crotch of the user. The crotch part will be located differently in the product, depending on what design the absorbent product has. If the absorbent article is, for example, symmetrical, such as in FIG. 2, the center line 120 of the crotch portion is in the middle of the absorbent article. The middle of the product is easily detected by folding the front and rear edges of the product to each other.

In addition, if the absorbent article is in the form of an hourglass, the center line 120 of the crotch portion 121 is located where the distance between the longitudinal side edges of the article is the smallest.

Fig. 8 shows a sanitary napkin 711 having wings, the wings 755 being used to fold around the crotch portion of the underpants during use. The wings will ensure that the sanitary napkin is held in the correct position in the underpants, and the underpants will be protected from the body fluid, since the wings will prevent the outflow of liquid at the edges and the panties. The crotch portion 719 is shown having a front portion 721 and a rear portion 722. A first microorganism-retarding element 723 or a microorganism-retarding section having a front border 724 and a rear border 725 is located so that the front border 724 will be in the rear portion 722 of the crotch portion 719. The front border 724 of the first element 723 or section is at a distance of approximately 0.5 to 3 cm from the center line 720 of the crotch portion 719. In this embodiment, the wings will be able to acce alignment of the first element or section relative to the perineum. The crotch portion 719 of the absorbent article will be between the wings 755. The wings are divided into a front portion 757 and a second part 758 separated by a center line 756. When an absorbent article comprising the wings is used, the center lines 756 of the wings 755 coincide approximately with the center line 720 of the crotch portion of the absorbent article , or the center line 720 of the crotch portion 719 will be in front of the center line of the wings at a distance from it of up to about 1 cm. The wings 755 will be aligned s with the crotch part of the panties, which means that the crotch part 719 of the absorbent article will be aligned with the crotch of the wearer. This ensures that the first microorganism-retarding element 723 or section is aligned with the perineum, thereby ensuring proper placement.

Figure 9 shows an embodiment in the form of a panty liner for a tanga-type underwear. The product comprises two substantially longitudinal lateral edges 813, 814, one substantially transverse front edge 815 and one substantially transverse rear edge 816. It comprises a front portion 817, a rear portion 818, and a crotch portion 819 that is located between the front 817 and the back 818 parts. The crotch portion is divided into a front portion 821 and a rear portion 822 by a center line 820. The product comprises at least one first microorganism-retarding element 823 or a section having a front border 824 and a rear border 825, and two side borders 826, however, the first element 823 or section is intended (s) for placement at the perineum of the carrier during use. The first element 823 or section is located so that the front border 824 of the first element 823 or section is located on the rear portion of the crotch portion beyond the center line 820 of the crotch portion at a distance from the center line 820 of approximately 0.5 to 3 cm.

As mentioned above, it is important that good contact is maintained between the first element or section of the absorbent article and the skin of the wearer in the perineum. It is also important that the contact is kept good so as to maintain a barrier to the movement of microorganisms during use of the product. Therefore, it is preferable if the absorbent article or the microorganism-retaining article has a three-dimensional shape. If the product has a shape that is three-dimensional from the side facing the user, it must be shaped so that it has a bulge, especially in that part of the product that will be located in the crotch area of the user. This will lead to the fact that the product will have constant contact with the perineum.

An example of a microorganism-retarding article having a three-dimensional shape is a microorganism-retarding article containing a fold in the longitudinal direction in the middle of the product, so that the fold will provide a bulge (protrusion) on the side of the top sheet of the product in the longitudinal direction.

In addition, figure 10 shows an embodiment of an absorbent article in accordance with the present invention having a three-dimensional shape. Figure 10 shows an absorbent product, while the specified product has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the front part 917, the rear part 918, the crotch part 919 located between the rear part and the front part, the absorbent layer and the liquid impermeable layer 960, and stiffening element 961, which is intended to help shape the product in three dimensions during use. The stiffening element 961 is in a flat state before using the product, it extends in the longitudinal direction of the product through the crotch part 919 and at least some distance to the front part 917. In addition, the stiffening element 961 has a width M in the transition zone 962 between the crotch part 919 and the front part 917, which is adapted to (corresponds to) the distance between the tendons of the thin muscles of the wearer on both sides of the wearer's perineum in the inguinal region of the wearer and which is approximately 2.5-4.5 cm, and the crotch part 919 has a length G of about 7-12 cm. The lateral edges of the stiffening element 961 in the front part 917 of the article diverge in the direction from the crotch part 919, at least at some the distance on the front part 917, and the lateral edges of the stiffening element 961, extending in the direction from the crotch zone, form an acute angle α with a line running in the longitudinal direction of the product. In addition, the product contains a first microorganism-retarding element 923 or section located (th) so that the front border 924 of the first element 923 or section is located on the rear section 922 of the crotch part 919 behind the center line 920 of the crotch part 919 at a distance from the center line 920 approximately 0.5-3 cm. In this case, the center line 920 of the crotch portion will be located in front of the center line 963 of the wings.

The product is placed so that when it is applied, its transitional zone between the front part and the crotch part is between the muscle tendons. The product must be fixed between the tendons and thus transformed from a flat shape to a three-dimensional shape, while the front part bends upward relative to the crotch part and forms a cup shape, at least in the area next to the crotch part. With this three-dimensional shape, the first element or section will have constant contact with the skin of the carrier, and the barrier to microorganisms will remain during use of the product. Thus, the migration of microorganisms on the skin of the perineum will be prevented or reduced.

During use of the product, the back 918 is folded along the line L. Further embodiments of three-dimensional absorbent products are disclosed in WO 02/087483, which is hereby incorporated by reference. All of the embodiments described herein and intended for use by women can be used in conjunction with a microorganism-inhibiting element or section in accordance with the present invention.

The stiffening element may consist of a dry-formed fibrous mat with a density of 0.15 to 0.75 g / cm ³ and a mass per unit area of approximately 100-300 g / m ² . It may consist of a mixture of cellulosic fibers and viscose fibers and it may also contain synthetic molten fibers.

Products and products in accordance with the present invention can be packaged in conventional packaging. It is important that the packaging is water and moisture resistant if the element or section is moisture sensitive.

The microorganism-retaining article described above can also be used with an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner for everyday use, or an incontinence guard. Some women may require microbial products between periods. Then, during menstruation, they will also need absorbent products. Many women regularly use panty liners designed for everyday use or incontinence protectors. In this case, it may be convenient to use a microorganism-inhibiting article together with an absorbent article.

Therefore, the present invention further relates to a kit for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone, comprising:

a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence protector, comprising a liquid permeable top sheet designed to guide it to the wearer during use and a liquid impervious bottom sheet for directing it to the underpants of the wearer during use, said product having a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, two substantially longitudinal b shackles, one essentially transverse front edge, one essentially transverse rear edge, the front part, the rear part and the crotch part located between the rear part and the front part, while the crotch part is divided into the front section and the rear section of the Central a line, the crotch portion having a length of about 7 to 12 cm, and the absorbent article has a mark on the top sheet for exposing the microorganism-retarding article according to any one of claims 2-12 so that s first element or section was (s) is placed (s) of the crotch of the wearer during use for preventing or reducing migration of microorganisms in the direction from the rear edge to the front edge of the product, and

b) a microorganism-retarding article according to any one of claims 2-12, wherein the microorganism-retarding article is adapted to be attached to the top sheet of the absorbent article so that the front border of the first element or section is placed at the perineum of the carrier during use.

The same materials and means are used as described above, and the products must be positioned so that the first element or section is located at the perineum, as described above.

In the case where the microorganism-retaining article is used for the kit together with the absorbent article, it may have means for mounting on the back sheet, on the side intended to be directed away from the carrier, that is, on the side intended to be attached to the absorbent article. The fastening means can be provided in the form of glue on the edges of the back sheet, in the form of strips on the fastening means, or the entire back sheet can be covered with glue. The adhesive may be covered with a protective coating element that must be removed before use.

Some women may find it convenient to use a conventional absorbent article together with some composition to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms that they apply to the absorbent article. In addition, some antimicrobial agents may be sensitive to environmental influences and may be stored separately from the absorbent article.

This problem was solved in accordance with the invention by means of a kit to prevent or reduce the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone, containing:

a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence protector, comprising a liquid permeable top sheet designed to guide it to the wearer during use and a liquid impervious bottom sheet for directing it to the underpants of the wearer during use, said product having a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, two substantially longitudinal b shackles, one essentially transverse front edge, one essentially transverse rear edge, the front part, the rear part and the crotch part located between the rear part and the front part, while the crotch part is divided into the front section and the rear section of the Central a line, the crotch portion having a length of about 7 to 12 cm, and the absorbent article has a mark, wherein the mark has a front border, a rear border and two side borders, and the mark is located so that it will be located at the crotch and a wearer during use, wherein the label is intended for applying a composition for preventing or reducing migration of microorganisms, and

b) a composition for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms containing a material selected from a hydrophobic substance and an antimicrobial agent or a mixture thereof, and

c) a product, such as a cotton swab, brush or peg, for applying the composition to the mark on the top sheet of the absorbent article.

The composition may be selected from the hydrophobic material and antimicrobial agents described above, and the composition should be applied to the top sheet on the label, the label should correspond to the place where the first element or section is located (s) in the products described above, and the first element or section should (should) be placed at the perineum of the wearer during use. It is envisaged that the location of the sections, elements or labels, as well as the materials in the sections or elements in the kits mentioned above, is the same as described in connection with absorbent articles and microorganism-inhibiting articles described above.

Through the use of the invention, close contact between the article and the perineum is achieved, and a barrier is formed and maintained.

In accordance with the present invention, a small amount of a microbial-retaining material, such as a hydrophobic material, an antimicrobial agent and a positively charged material, can have a large effect. It is not required that the entire product be processed, and yet it provides a very good effect in preventing or reducing the movement of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital area. The small amount used is preferable for women wearing the product or product, since they should not be in contact with large quantities of added material and since the healthy urogenital flora is not disturbed. In addition, costs can be reduced if it is not required that the material be applied to the entire top sheet.

Claims (21)

1. An absorbent article (111) intended for use by women, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence guard, comprising a liquid-permeable topsheet (112) intended to be directed toward the wearer during use, and a liquid-impervious lower sheet intended to direct it to the underwear during use, said product having a longitudinal direction, transverse direction, two essentially longitudinal lateral edges (113, 114), one essentially transverse front edge (115), one essentially transverse rear edge (116), front part (117), rear part ( 118) and the crotch part (119) located between the rear part (118) and the front part (117), while the crotch part (119) is divided into the front section (121) and the rear section (122) by the central line (120), and the crotch part (119) has a length of from about 7 to 12 cm, characterized in that the product contains at least one first delay a microorganism-containing element (123) or one first section having a front border (124) and a rear border (125) and two side borders (126), wherein the first element (123) or the first section is located ) so that he (she) will be placed on the perineum of the wearer during use, with the first element (123) located on the top sheet (112) or the first section included in the top sheet (112), and the first element ( 123) or the first section is located so that the front border (124) of the first element (123) or the first section is perineal in the posterior section (122) th part (119). 2. A microorganism-holding product (211) intended for use by women, characterized in that the product contains a top sheet (212) designed to direct it to the carrier during use and, optionally, a liquid-impervious lower sheet intended for directing it to the underwear of the user during use, said product (211) having a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, two essentially longitudinal side edges (213, 214), one essentially transverse front edge (215) , one substantially transverse trailing edge (216), a front portion (217) and a rear portion (218), wherein the distance between the transverse trailing edge (216) and the transverse leading edge (215) is 2 to 6 cm, and the distance between the longitudinal lateral edges (213, 214) is from 3 to 5 cm, and the product (211) contains at least one first microorganism-retarding element (223) or one first section having a front border (224) ), the rear border (225) and two side borders (226), while the first element (223) or section is intended (s) to accommodate his (her) crotch of the wearer during use, said first member (223) is disposed on the top sheet (212) or a first section included in the top sheet (212). 3. The product according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first element (123, 223) or the first section contains at least one material selected from a hydrophobic material, an antimicrobial agent and a positively charged material. 4. The product according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the distance between the lateral borders (126, 226) of the first element (123, 223) or the first section is at least 2 cm. 5. The product according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the distance between the front border (124, 224) and the rear border (125, 225) of the first element (123, 223) or the first section is at least 0.5 cm. 6. The product according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the product (311) contains a second microorganism-retarding element (329) or a second section having (a) front border (330), a rear border (331) and two side borders (332, 333), wherein the second element (329) or the second section extends backward from the rear border of the first element (323) or the first section. 7. The product according to claim 6, characterized in that the first element (323) or the first section contains a hydrophobic substance or positively charged material, and the second element (329) or the second section contains an antimicrobial agent. 8. The product according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the bottom sheet contains means for mounting on the side that faces the underwear of the user during use, made in the form of glue. 9. The product according to claim 2, characterized in that the first element (223) or the first section is in front of (217) of the product (211). 10. The product according to claim 2, characterized in that it contains means for attaching to the top sheet in the form of glue or a sticky substance covering the entire top sheet or portions of the top sheet, while the means for attaching are designed to attach the product to the skin of the carrier use. 11. The product according to claim 2, characterized in that it contains a fold in the longitudinal direction in the middle of the product, so that the fold provides a bulge on the side of the top sheet of the product. 12. The product according to claim 1, characterized in that the first element (123) or the first section is located at a distance of approximately 0.5-3 cm from the center line (120) of the crotch part (119) behind the specified center line (120 ) 13. The product according to claim 1 or 12, characterized in that the product further comprises an absorbent layer between the upper sheet and the lower sheet. 14. The product according to item 13, wherein the third microorganism-retarding element (650) is located in the absorbing layer (653). 15. The product according to 14, characterized in that the third element (650) is a film or a fibrous layer extending between the longitudinal side edges of the absorbent product and in the vertical direction between the upper sheet (612) and the lower sheet (652). 16. The product according to claim 1 or 12, characterized in that a mark is provided in the form of a pattern or coloring on the top sheet (112) where the first element (123) or the first section is provided, so as to ensure alignment of the first element (123 ) or the first section of the product at the perineum of the carrier. 17. The product according to claim 1 or 12, characterized in that a mark is provided in the form of a pattern or coloring on the bottom sheet, on the side facing away from the user, at the place corresponding to the first element (123) or the first section on the top sheet (112) , in order to ensure alignment of the first element (123) or the first section of the product at the perineum of the carrier. 18. The product according to claim 1 or 12, characterized in that the product contains lactic acid forming bacteria on at least part of the zone that is in contact with the urogenital zone of the carrier during use. 19. The product according to p. 18, characterized in that the part of the zone that contains the bacteria forming lactic acid is in front of the center line of the crotch part. 20. A kit for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone, containing
a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence protector, containing a liquid-permeable top sheet designed to guide it to the wearer during use, and a liquid-impervious bottom sheet, designed to direct it to the underwear of the carrier during use, and the specified product has a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, two essentially flank lateral edges, one substantially transverse front edge, one substantially transverse rear edge, front portion, rear portion and crotch portion located between the rear portion and the front portion, wherein the crotch portion is divided into a front portion and a rear portion a central line, the crotch portion having a length of about 7 to 12 cm, and the absorbent article has a mark on the top sheet for aligning the microorganism-retarding article according to any one of claims 2-12 so that the first element whether the first section was (s) posted (s) of the crotch of the wearer during use, and
b) a microorganism-retarding article according to any one of claims 2-12, wherein the microorganism-retarding article is adapted to be attached to the top sheet of the absorbent article so that the front border of the first element or first section is placed at the perineum of the carrier during use. 21. A kit for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms from the anus to the urogenital zone, containing
a) an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner or incontinence protector, containing a liquid permeable top sheet designed to guide it to the wearer during use, and a liquid impervious bottom sheet for directing it to the underwear of the carrier during use, said product having a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, two substantially lateral edges, one essentially transverse front edge, one essentially transverse rear edge, front part, rear part and crotch part located between the rear part and the front part, while the crotch part is divided into a front section and a rear section the center line, the crotch portion having a length of about 7 to 12 cm, and the absorbent article has a mark, wherein the mark has a front border, a rear border and two side borders, and the mark is located so that it will be placed at the ezhnosti wearer during use, wherein the label is intended for applying a composition for preventing or reducing migration of microorganisms, and
b) a composition for preventing or reducing the migration of microorganisms containing a material selected from a hydrophobic substance and an antimicrobial agent or a mixture thereof, and
c) a product, such as a cotton swab, brush or peg, for applying the composition to the mark on the top sheet of the absorbent article.

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