MXPA00004732A - Undergarment for use with an absorbent article - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to undergarments that have close body fit. The undergarment of the present invention includes an elasticized waistband, a front region, a rear region, a crotch region and a pair of elasticized leg openings. The front and rear regions are preferably elastically extensible in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. The crotch region is disposed between the front and rear regions and has greater resistance to stretching in the longitudinal direction than the front and rear regions. The crotch region is further provided with a longitudinal stretch control member that is disposed along the longitudinal centerline of the undergarment and a plurality of angled stretch control members that extend from the longitudinal stretch control member to the leg elastics at an acute angle to the longitudinal stretch control member. The stretch control members limit the stretch of the crotch region in both the longitudinal and the lateral directions that causes the crotch region to conform to a wearer's skin surface. The rear region is provided with a lifting member that cooperates with the rear region, the front region and the longitudinal stretch control member to provide a"z-direction"biasing force along the longitudinal stretch controlmember. This biasing force, which is greater than the body contact force in adjacent portions of the crotch region, causes the crotch region, and any absorbent article that may be disposed thereon, to be lifted into close bodily contact when the undergarment is worn.

Description

INTERIOR GARMENT THAT IS USED WITH ABSORBENT ARTICLE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to undergarments, particularly with undergarments that can be used with an absorbent article, and more particularly with undergarments that a wearer can use with a catamenial device during his menstrual period.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION As is known, disposable catamenial devices are commercially available in a variety of configurations for the specific purpose of absorbing and retaining menstrual fluids and other vaginal segregations. Unfortunately, such catamenial devices can let menstruation drain along its periphery due to poor fit or improper positioning. Said runoff frequently fouls the user's interior presses, clothes or bedding. To provide additional protection against runoff, it is known to use a reusable and washable garment, such as a pant or menstrual shorts, together with a disposable catamenial pad. For example, the patent of E.U.A. No. 3,489,149, issued to Larson on January 13, 1970, describes a washable menstrual panty that has a small pouch in the crotch area to retain a disposable catamenial pad. Since menstruation must initially flow through a layer of material that forms the bag to reach the catamenial pad, removal of the dirty catamenial pad can be unpleasant, difficult, and unhealthy. While a new pad can be inserted into the bag, the garment is already dirty and typically would have to be changed. Also, the bag may not accommodate the different sizes of catamenial devices currently on the market. In addition, the layer of moisture resistant material described herein does not provide ventilation or respiration in the crotch region, resulting in the potential for discomfort of the wearer when said pant is used. The technique has also attempted to address the runoff of catamenial devices by providing absorbent material in a region surrounding the device and means for positioning the catamenial device. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,560,381, issued to Southwell on December 24, 1985, discloses an outer netting with a thick inner layer of absorbent material in the lower crotch area of the underpants. The inner layer of absorbent material includes a depression for receiving and placing a catamenial pad. An alternative embodiment includes a barrier film between the absorbent material and the panty cover. However, if the barrier film is present, the crotch portion will not be able to breathe (resulting in discomfort) and if the barrier film is absent, there is a risk of runoff. In U.S. Patent 4,813,950, issued to Branch on March 21, 1989, a washable menstrual pantyhose having an outer lining of spandex, soft knit, etc., which provides a fit "glued or nearly glued to the skin" is described. and an inner lining of a plastic microporous film to prevent the passage of menstruation through it, while allowing the passage of gases. Similarly, the existing Japanese-type menstrual shorts act as a tight-fitting girdle or trousers which attempts to hold a catamenial device in the user's pudendal region. However, it has been reported that tight fitting of such undergarments is uncomfortable for the user and there is no apparent provision for directly lifting a catamenial device to a position close to the user's pudenda area. A menstrual shorts that have a fixed elastic piece on the front and back of the crotch region in a stretched state is described in the U.S. patent. No. 3, 608,551, issued to Seijo on September 28, 1971. It is said that the elastic piece maintains a raised sanitary towel and in contact with "the private parts of a woman's body without taking into account her physical movements ...". The elastic piece is attached to the openings of the leg by an open mesh net or the crotch region is underlying the net. While said device can improve contact with the body along a coronal center line of a user's body, the device is unlikely to lift a catamenial absorbent in accordance with the external surface of the user's lips. In addition, the narrow central elastic piece can cause the device to be uncomfortable for the user because the entire lifting force seems to be concentrated along the user's coronal center line. The Japanese utility model 4-9222, published on behalf of Kao Corp., on August 11, 1992 describes an undergarment having portions with different mechanical properties where the fabric comprises the front part, the crotch part and the part Rear center has a longitudinal tensile strength that is at least twice the longitudinal tensile strength of the left and right rear parts. With the tensile strength in the lateral direction being less than the tensile strength in the longitudinal direction in each of the parts. The undergarment is said to stretch and shrink according to the movement of the wearer in such a way that a sanitary napkin placed on it will not move. While said garment may improve contact between the garment and a sanitary napkin placed thereon, said improved contact will not necessarily provide improved contact with the body. It is of importance that the consistent nature of the mechanical properties of the fabric that make the front part, the crotch part, and the back center part means that the garment probably provides an essential constant force through the crotch part .

The patent of E. U. A. No. 5,611,722, issued to Osborn on March 18, 1997 describes a brief-type undergarment. The brief-type undergarment has both a front panel and a back panel, and a crotch portion. The undergarment further includes a substantially anchor-shaped support panel having a greater resistance to stretching than the rest of the undergarment which is integrally woven into the back panel. It is said that the support panel lifts and separates the gluteus from the user. The support panel includes a vertical band and upward curling portions, which extend toward and along a portion of the leg openings of the undergarment.

While said undergarments can lift and separate the user's buttocks, the undergarments do not provide a lifting force that can improve contact with the body between a catamenial device and the pudenda region of the user. Disposable menstrual pants are also known.

For example, PCT application WO 95/06451 published on behalf of Kimberly-Clark Corporation, on March 9, 1995 discloses a disposable menstrual panty which provides protection against backsliding by means of a barrier / absorbent composite placed in the area crotch of the pants. The menstrual shorts described herein are also provided with elastics that are circumferentially oriented, which are said to allow the pants to conform to various body types and configurations. However, because they only surround the user's hip and waist areas, said elastics do not provide a deviating force in the "z" direction (ie upward) to help maintain a catamenial device in contact with the user's pudenda region. As a result, there is a risk of runoff around the catamenial device and a risk resulting from soiling of outer garments or bedding. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an undergarment that conforms to the external surfaces or the pudenda region of the wearer without causing substantial discomfort. It is another object of the present invention to provide an undergarment that fits against the wearer's body as close as possible, so that it is like a "second skin". It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved undergarment that is used with a catamenial device or an incontinence control device which causes said devices to conform to the outer surfaces of the pudenda region of the user to provide improved protection against runoff. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an undergarment which provides a diverting force to help ensure tight contact between said devices and the pudenda region of the user throughout the range of the user's movements without causing any significant discomfort to the user. . This and other objects of the present invention will be obvious as soon as they are considered in reference to the following description and taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to undergarments that have a tight fit with the body, almost "second skin". In particular, the undergarments of the present invention are particularly well suited to assist in securing an absorbent article, such as a catamenial pad or an incontinence device, in close contact with the body through wide ranges of user movements. The undergarment of the present invention comprises an elastic waistband, a front panel, a back panel, a crotch panel and a pair of elastic leg openings. The front and rear panels preferably extend in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. The crotch panel is placed between the front and rear panels and has greater resistance to stretching in the longitudinal and lateral direction than the front and rear panels. In back panel it is provided with a lifting member, which cooperates with the back panel to provide a deviating force in the "z-direction" along the longitudinal center line of the undergarment. This deviating force causes the crotch panel, and any absorbent article that may be placed on it, to rise to come into close contact with the body when the undergarment is worn. The crotch panel is further provided with a longitudinal stretch control member that is positioned along the longitudinal center line of the undergarment and, preferably, a plurality of angled stretch control members extending from the undercarriage member. control of longitudinal stretching to the leg elastics at an acute angle with the longitudinal stretch control member. The longitudinal stretch control member directs the forces of the front and rear panels to lift the crotch panel to come in close contact with the body along a sagittal center line and the leg elastics lift such edges to enter in close contact with the body adjacent to the folds of the user's leg. As a result, the crotch panel maintains a tight contact with the body on substantially all of the external surface of the user's lips. The proportion of the deviating force in the "z direction" along the center line with the force of contact with the body on the labial surface is greater than 1: 1. While the undergarment of the present invention can be assembled from materials that can be known in the art as having the required mechanical properties, it is preferably woven. When the undergarment of the present invention is woven, the mechanical properties of the various components thereof can be provided by a combination of a woven pattern used for a particular component and the yarns that are used. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the stretch control members are integrally woven with the crotch panel and the lifting member is integrally woven with the back panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS While the application concludes with the claims particularly underlining and distinctly claiming the subject in which it is taken as forming the present invention, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description, which is taken together with the accompanying drawings and examples in which: Figure 1 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of the menstrual undergarment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a rear view of the menstrual undergarment shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic partial coronal cross section showing the crotch region of a prior art conventional undergarment during use with the legs of the undergarment. separate user. Figure 4 is a schematic partial coronal cross section showing the crotch region of a conventional undergarment of the prior art during use with the user's legs together. Figure 5 is a schematic partial coronal cross section showing the crotch region of the undergarment of the undergarment of the present invention during use with the legs of the wearer separated. Figure 6 is a schematic partial coronal cross section showing the crotch region of the undergarment of the present invention during use with the user's legs together.

Figure 7 is a front photograph of an undergarment of the present invention with the legs of the wearer separated. Figure 8 is a front photograph of an undergarment of the present invention with the user's legs open. Figure 9 is a front photograph of a conventional woven undergarment of the prior art with the user's legs closed. Figure 10 is a front photograph of a conventional woven undergarment of the prior art with the user's legs open, Figure 11 is a plan view of the menstrual undergarment shown in Figure 1 that has been opened by its side seams , the elastic components have been pulled to be placed flat. Figure 12 is a plan view of an absorbent article suitable for use with the present invention. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the Survey Test apparatus. Figure 14 is a front view of the gauge measurement device of the Punch Chamber used in the Survey Test.

Figure 15 is a bottom view of the Survey Test apparatus. Figure 16 is a side view of the Lifting Test apparatus. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of one of the PLEXIGLAS plates used in the Survey Test apparatus taken along line 17-17 of Figure 16. Figure 18 is a side view of the calibration of the Lifting test apparatus showing a properly placed undergarment. Figure 19A is a photographic image of a rear view of an instrumented mannequin used in the body contact force test method. Figure 19B is a schematic diagram of a rear view of the instrumented manikin showing the positioning of the force sensors in the appropriately placed undergarment. Figure 20A is a photographic image of a front view of the instrumented mannequin used in the body strength and contact test method. Figure 20B is a schematic diagram of a front view of the instrumented manikin showing the positioning of the force sensors.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to undergarments, more specifically with undergarments suitable for holding a disposable absorbent article in close contact with the body of a wearer. A particularly preferred form of the present invention relates to an undergarment that is intended for use with catamenial devices, such as sanitary napkins and towels, and the like, to hold said devices in close contact with the body to help reduce the runoff of said devices. It should be understood, however, that the present invention can also be applied for use not only with catamenial devices but with other absorbent articles such as incontinence devices, devices particularly intended for users suffering from urinary incontinence, diaper inserts, and the like. . As used herein, the term "catamenial device" refers to an absorbent article, which is used by women adjacent to the pudenda region to absorb and contain bodily fluids, such as menstrual fluids and other vaginal secretions, also as used herein , the term "disposable" refers to structures that are not intended to be washed or otherwise restored or reused after use (ie, they are intended to be discarded after a single use, and preferably, to be recycled, made compost or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner). As used herein, the term "pudenda" refers to the externally visible female genitalia and is limited to the labia majora, the labia minora, the clitoris, and the vaginal vestibule. In addition, the term "perineum" refers to the external region of the woman's body between the anus and the pudendal region while the term "gluteal groove" refers to the crease between the buttocks that extends upward from the perineum. As used herein, the terms "fluid", "liquid" and the like are intended to be interchangeable and refer to materials that are in a liquid state when they are at a temperature of about 37.7 ° C.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE GARMENT As mentioned above, the present invention is suitable for use with a wide variety of absorbent articles, it will be described in terms of a menstrual undergarment, which may be used in conjunction with a catamenial device 200. Figures 1 and 2 show front views and back of the menstrual undergarment of the present invention. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention comprises a front region, such as a front panel 30; a rear region, such as a rear panel 40; a crotch version, as it is a crotch panel 50; a pair of elastic leg openings 60, and an elastic waistband 22. The front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 can extend at least in the longitudinal direction. The crotch panel 50 can extend at least in the lateral direction. As used herein, a material "can be extended", if when an external force is applied to it, the material extends in the direction of the applied force and will recover, upon release of the applied force, at least in one embodiment. % of its elongation. The menstrual undergarment 20 is also provided with a waist opening 21 allowing entry into the menstrual undergarment 20. The menstrual undergarment 20 further comprises a lifter member 42 disposed along the longitudinal center line L on the rear panel 40, a longitudinal stretch control member 52 positioned along the longitudinal center line in the crotch panel 50, and, preferably, a plurality of angled stretch control members 54 disposed at an angle A with respect to the leg member. longitudinal stretch control 52 and extending from these to the elastics of the leg 62. It should be noted that the front edge 48 of the crotch panel 50 is preferably positioned such that it is under or behind (i.e. ) of the user's pubic bone so that the pubic bone does not interfere with the fit of the menstrual undergarment 20. Each of The elements will be described in detail in the following sections. As mentioned above, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide an undergarment that fits against the wearer's body, particularly the pudenda area thereof, so tightly that it forms a "second skin". Figures 3 to 6 schematically compare the fit of a conventional prior art undergarment in the crotch region when the legs of the wearer are separated, and when they are together with the fit of the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention. A similar comparison is shown photographically in Figures 7-10. As shown in Figures 3 and 9, the crotch region of said conventional undergarment buckles when the user's legs come together. As shown in Figure 4, when the user's legs are separated, the crotch region of the conventional undergarment "forms a space" or causes a longitudinally oriented area, centered around the space between the user's lips. While Figure 10 does not clearly show such space formation, the lack of close contact with the body when the user's legs are separated is obvious. On the other hand, the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention, as shown in Figures 5, 6, 7 and 8, comfortably fits against and conforms to the outer surface of the labia majora whether the user's legs they are separated, or together. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in the schematic partial coronal cross section, the menstrual undergarment of the present invention maintains a unified tip-shaped configuration in this area throughout a range of body movements. The cross-sectional configuration of the menstrual undergarment is described as having a "modified" tip shape because it can, but preferably does not form a point where the curved portions meet in the longitudinally oriented area in the space between the user's lips, but is more rounded, and preferably convex in this area. Similarly, Figures 7 and 8 demonstrate this modified tip configuration so that the longitudinal stretch control member clearly remains disposed between the distal ends of the user's lips whether their legs are closed or separated (i.e. some penetration inside the cleft lip). Figure 11 shows the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention in a totally flat position where each of the side seams 32, 34 has been opened and the elastic components have been pulled to lie flat. Figure 11 can also be considered as a plan view of a template for the menstrual undergarment 20 (see Inner Garment Training below). As can be seen in Figure 11, the menstrual undergarment 20 has a longitudinal centerline L and a transverse centerline T. Also as can be clearly seen in Figure 11, the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention is symmetric about of its longitudinal axis L and asymmetric about the transverse axis T. While not limited by theory, it is believed that this transverse asymmetry allows the elastics of the leg 62 to provide a force, which causes the inter-leg panel it curves upwards on the external surface of the user's lips when the menstrual undergarment 20 is worn. It can further be understood that the cooperation between the elastics of the leg 62 and the angled stretch control member 54 provide the crotch panel 50 with a resistance to be constricted by applying a longitudinally directed force resulting in a reduction in relative movement between the panel of the crotch. crotch 50 and the user's lips caused by the user's movement. The menstrual undergarment 20 may comprise woven or non-woven fabrics. Preferably, the menstrual undergarment 20 comprises a woven fabric. A particularly preferred means of knitting involves knitting first a seamless tubular insole about half the final length of the menstrual undergarment 20. The tubular insole can be woven to have an hourglass-shaped configuration to provide the openings of the legs 60 in the finished menstrual undergarment 20 or, alternatively, portions of the open tube can be cut to provide said leg openings 60 (see Inner Garment Training below). Elastic Waistband As mentioned above, the waist opening 21 allows entry into the undergarment 20 of the present invention. Preferably, the opening of the waist 21 is provided with an elastic waistband 22 such that the opening of the waist 21 closely conforms to the wearer's waist. Elastic waistband 22 can be formed by providing an elastic member, such as a Lycra® or SPANDEX material, adjacent to each distal end of the insole shown in Figure 11, bending at C each far end around itself to form end ends 23 and 24, and sewing the side edges 25-28 of the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 to form the opening of the waist 21 and the elastic waistband 22. Preferably, the elastic waistband comprises the same threads as and is integrally woven with the front panel 30 and the back panel 40. More preferably, the elastic waistband 22 comprises a rolled hem as is known in the art. A particularly preferred knitting pattern for the elastic waistband 22 comprises a combination of simple fabric stitches and floating stitches wherein each fourth bun is provided with a right float stitch.

Frontal Region As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the front region, as exemplified by the front panel 30 is that portion of the menstrual undergarment 20 that cooperates with the back panel 40 (which will be mentioned later) to encircle the hips and waist of the user. As can also be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the front panel 30, the rear panel 40, and the crotch panel 50 also cooperate to define the leg openings 60 (mentioned in detail below). The front panel can also preferably extend at least in the longitudinal direction, preferably both longitudinally and transversally, so that it is easily able to conform to a wide range of body configurations. While alternative structures may be used, for example, the front panel 30 may be cut into an appropriate configuration of a nonwoven or woven material and attached to the remainder of the portions of the menstrual undergarment 20, the front panel 30 of the present invention it is preferably simply woven in its entirety, more preferably knitted fabric, from a combination of non-elastically extensible and elastically extensible yarns. As is clear to those of ordinary skill in the art, the elastic properties of the individual threads and the particular knitting pattern can be used by a designer to define the mechanical properties of the front panel 30. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention , the front panel 30 comprises alternating courses of single fabric in its entirety, preferably knitted fabric, nylon and Lycra® or SPANDEX yarns as can be obtained from Unif, Inc. of Greensboro, NC. In an alternative embodiment, the front panel 30 can be completely simple woven, preferably knitted, using a Lycra® or SPANDEX yarn having suitable mechanical properties in all courses. As will be clear from the discussion of the mechanical properties of the front panel 30 below, the person skilled in the art can define other fabric patterns using alternative threads to provide said mechanical properties. As mentioned above, one can also imagine front panels 30 comprising woven or nonwoven materials having such mechanical properties as will be described later. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the front panel 30 may extend at least in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the front panel 30 can be elastically stretched in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. Said elastic extension allows the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention to conform to a variety of body configurations and sizes and provide good compliance to the wearer's body. A front panel that can be extended 30 further cooperates with the rear panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 to provide a "z-direction" diverting force to the crotch panel 50 through a wide range of user movements. Said diverting force helps to maintain a catamenial device 200 (Figure 12) as it can be used with the menstrual undergarment 20 in a close contact with the body, particularly with the pudenda region of the wearer. More preferably, the diverting force directs an absorbent article, such as a catamenial device 200, such that the article is held tightly against the user's body, wherein the front edge 202 of said device is in a position slightly anterior to the introitus and the trailing edge 204 of this is posterior to the perineum. Even more preferably, said diverting force maintains the device 200 in one position through a wide range of user movements. This deviating force will be mentioned later in detail in the Longitudinal Stretch Control Member section. Preferably, the front panel 30 is constructed to have a longitudinal stretch modulus of between about 1 g / inch (0.4 g / cm) and about 50.0 g / inch (19.5 g / cm). More preferably, the longitudinal stretch module is between about 3 g / inch (1.2 g / cm) and about 40 g / inch (15.7 g / cm). It is particularly preferred that the longitudinal stretching module of the material comprising the front panel 30 be quite low (particularly compared to other undergarments of the art) and be between about 3 g / inch (1.2 g / cm) and about 20 g / in. (7.9 g / cm). A suitable method for measuring the stretch modulus is described in the TEST METHODS section, below.

The Rear Region As mentioned above, the rear region, as exemplified by the rear panel 40, cooperates with the front panel 30 to surround the user's hips and waist. As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the rear panel 40 comprises first and second sections 44 and 46. Sections 44 and 46, which are separated by the extended longitudinally extending lift member 42 (referred to as a further separate element). forward), provides coverage for the user's buttocks and has on them a portion of elastic waistband 22 which surrounds the wearer's waist. A rear panel 40 can also preferably be elastically stretched at least in the longitudinal direction, preferably both in the longitudinal and transverse directions, so that it is easily able to conform to a wide range of body configurations. In a manner similar to the front panel 30 the first and second sections 44 and 46 the back panel 40 are preferably woven in their entirety, more preferably knitted fabric, from a combination of non-elastically extensible and elastically extensible yarns. Again, other materials such as the woven and non-woven materials cut and sewn mentioned above, which have the required mechanical properties, are also suitable. As is clear to anyone of ordinary skill in the art, the elastic properties of the individual threads and the particular fabric patterns can be used by a designer to define suitable mechanical properties. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel 40 comprise alternating courses of single fabric in its entirety, preferably knitted fabric, nylon and Lycra® or SPANDEX yarns as can be obtained from Unify Inc. of Greensboro, NC. In an alternative embodiment, the front panel 30 can be completely simple woven, preferably knitted, using Lycra® or SPANDEX yarns having adequate mechanical properties in all its courses. As will be clear from the discussion of the mechanical properties of the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel 40 below, that person skilled in the art will be able to define other fabric patterns using alternative threads to provide said mechanical properties.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel can extend at least in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the sections 44, 46 can be elastically stretched in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. Said elastic extension allows the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention to conform to a variety of body configurations and sizes and provide good compliance to the wearer's body. A rear panel 40 that can extend further cooperates with the front panel 30, having a lifter member 42, and the crotch panel 50 to provide a "z-direction" diverting force to the crotch panel 50 over a wide range of user movement. Said diverting force helps to maintain a catamenial device 200 (Figure 12) as it can be used with a menstrual undergarment 20 in close contact with the body, particularly with the pudenda region of the wearer. More preferably, the diverting force directs the catamenial device 200 in a relationship with the user's body where the front edge 202 of said device is in a position slightly anterior to the introitus and the trailing edge 204 thereof is posterior to the perineum. Even more preferably, said diverting force maintains the device 200 in said position through a wide range of user movements. This deviating force will be mentioned later in detail in the Longitudinal Stretch Control Member section. Preferably, the rear panel 40 is constructed to have a longitudinal stretch modulus of between about 1 g / inch (0.4 g / cm) and about 50.0 g / inch (19.7 g / cm). More preferably, the longitudinal stretch module is between about 3 g / inch (1.2 g / cm) and about 40 g / inch (15.7 g / cm). Particularly preferably, the longitudinal stretching module of the material comprising the first and second sections 44 and 46 of the rear panel 40 is quite low (particularly compared to other undergarments of the art) and is between about 3 g / inch ( 1.2 g / cm) and approximately 20 g / inch (7.9 g / cm). A suitable method for measuring the stretch modulus is described in the TEST METHODS section below.

The Lifting Member The lifting member 42 cooperates with the rear panel 40 to provide a "z direction" deviating force along the longitudinal center line L of the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention. This force aids in lifting the crotch panel 50, particularly the longitudinal stretch control member 52 which is disposed therein, so that the crotch panel 50 of the catamenial device 200 which may be disposed thereon, is in close contact. with the body In particular, without being limited by theory, it is believed that the lifting member 42 directs the elastic forces provided by the rear panel 40 along the longitudinal centerline L to assist in lifting the crotch panel 50 to come into contact tight with the body. As mentioned above, the lifting member 42 helps to provide a diverting force in the "z-direction" along the longitudinal center line L. Therefore, the lifting member 42 is preferably disposed along the center line longitudinal L on the rear panel 40. More preferably, the lifting member 42 divides the rear panel 40 into a first and second symmetrical section 44 and 46. The lifting member 42 can be attached to the rear panel 40 along the line longitudinal center L. Preferably, the lifting member 42 is integrated to the rear panel 40. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the lifting member 42 is integrally woven with the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel 40. To facilitate the direction of the forces, the lifting member 42 may have less stretch than the first and second sections 44 and 4 6 of the back panel 40. To provide said minor stretch, the lifting member 42 may comprise a material having a higher stretch modulus than the rear panel 40 or a woven material having a knitting pattern as is known in the art. to provide greater resistance to stretching. Materials with higher stretch modulus suitable for use as a lifting member 42 include high modulus film materials, such as polyester film material or even a single strand of yarn or monofilament having a relatively high modulus (eg cotton, polyester or nylon). Preferably, the lifting member 42 comprises the same yarns that are suitable for the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel 40 and are integrally woven therewith using a fabric pattern having less stretch than the first and second sections 44, 46. That is, the yarns mentioned above with respect to the first and second sections 44, 46 of the rear panel 40 are also suitable for the lifting member 42. A particularly preferred knitting pattern for the lifting member 42 uses known stitches in the technique to provide a reduced stretch. For example, it has been found that a pattern of double points, floating points, or a combination of double and floating points is adequate. As mentioned above, applicants believe that the lifting member 42 helps to direct the lifting forces provided by the rear panel 40 along the longitudinal center line L because the lifting member 42 has a higher stretch modulus than the back panel 40. In particular, the lifting member 42 preferably has a longitudinal stretch modulus of between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 110.0 g / inch (43.3 g / cm). More preferably, the longitudinal stretch module is between about 60 g / inch (23.6 g / cm) and about 100 g / inch (39.4 g / cm). A suitable method for measuring the stretch modulus is described in the TEST METHODS section below.

In an alternative embodiment of the lifting member, (not shown) the lifting member comprises two opposite portions, each of which extends upward and laterally outward at an acute angle to the longitudinal centerline on opposite sides of these. . The portions are joined in a joint area at the rear end of the longitudinal stretch control member. Preferably, the portions comprising this alternative embodiment are oriented toward each other on opposite sides of the longitudinal center line. A person skilled in the art will recognize that said structure divides the rear panel 40 into three portions. As the rear end of the longitudinal stretch control member 52 extends up and out at an acute angle, the portions of this alternative embodiment direct those forces resulting from the extension of the rear panel 40 such that they converge at the rear end of the rear panel. longitudinal stretch control member providing a diverting force in the "z-direction" thereof. Preferably, the acute angle is approximately 15 ° and approximately 35 °. More preferably, the acute angle is approximately 35 °.

The Crotch Region The crotch region, as exemplified by the crotch panel 50, is positioned along the longitudinal centerline L of the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention between the front panel 30 and the back panel 40. The preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 11, the crotch panel 50 comprises several portions that are divided by the longitudinal stretch control member 52 and the angled stretch control members 54. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the crotch panel 50 cooperates with the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 to define the leg openings 60. The crotch panel 50 is that portion of the menstrual undergarment. that has more direct contact with the user's pudenda area. The crotch panel 50 also supports any catamenial device 200 that can be used with said undergarment 20. The crotch panel 50 of the present invention is particularly capable of conforming to the pudenda region of the wearer. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the compliance of the crotch panel 50 of the present invention is due to the low lateral stretch modulus of the materials used for this. In particular, as mentioned above, the lifting member 42 cooperates with the rear panel 40 to provide a "z direction" deviating force along the longitudinal center line of the undergarment 20 (i.e. along the longitudinal stretch control member 52). Applicants believe that there is a similar "z-led" component to the force provided by the elastics of the leg 62 which causes the elastics of the leg to rise in the crease between the pudenda area of the user and his legs. As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the crotch panel 50 bridges the distance between the longitudinal stretch control member 52 and the leg elastics 62 (i.e. the distant edge 56 of the crotch panel is adjacent to the elastics. of the leg). Because the crotch panel 50 has a low lateral stretch module and because it is provided with a force in the "z direction" at two laterally spaced locations, applicants believe that the crotch panel 50 is lifted by the member. of control of longitudinal stretching and the elastics of the leg and stretched with this to easily conform to the external surfaces of those portions of the pudenda area of the user that lie between the cleft lip and the fold of the leg. This compliance is maintained over a wide range of motion. Compliance is shown particularly clearly in Figures 7 and 8 of Example 1 which photographically show that the tight contact with the crotch body body of the present invention is maintained when the user's legs are closed and when they are separated. Compared, the prior conventional prior art garment, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, buckles below the pudenda area of the wearer (i.e. there is no tight contact between the crotch of the prior art undergarment and the area user's pudenda). As mentioned above, it is important that the lateral stretch module of the crotch panel 50 be low to allow compliance thereof to the pudenda area of the user. It has been found that crotch panels 50 having a side stretch module of between about 1 g / inch (0.4 g / cm) and about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) are suitable for the present invention. Preferably, the crotch panel 50 has a side stretch modulus of between about 5 g / inch (2.0 g / cm) and about 40 g / inch (15.7 g / cm), more preferably between 10 g / inch (3.9 g / cm). cm) and approximately 30 g / inch (11.8 g / cm). The crotch panel 50 may comprise any woven material, nonwoven material, or the like having the required physical properties and which will be described below. Preferably the crotch panel 50 comprises a woven material having a longitudinal stretch modulus higher than the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 or the lifting member 42. More preferably, as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11. , the crotch panel 50 is integrally woven with the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 using a simple weave pattern and yarns having a low extension to provide stretch resistance. Additional stretch resistance is provided by the longitudinal stretch control member 52 and the angled stretch control members 54 which will be described later. The crotch panel 50 also has a lower stretch strength than the folded areas of the prior art undergarments that do not conform to the pudenda area of the wearer. Suitable threads for the crotch panel 50 have a relatively high stretch modulus (i.e. threads that could not be considered elastically extendable by the art). Suitable threads include natural threads, such as cotton threads and wool threads, and synthetic threads, such as nylon threads, polyester threads, acrylic threads, and other synthetic threads having the required mechanical properties. Particularly preferred yarns include nylon yarns and cotton yarns. Alternatively, if an elastically extensible crotch panel 50 is desired, Lycra® or SPANDEX yarns having a greater stretch modulus than similar Lycra® or SPANDEX yarns used for the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 can be used.

Member of Longitudinal Stretch Control As mentioned above the longitudinal stretch control member 52 serves to limit the stretching of the crotch panel 50. In particular, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 limits the longitudinally oriented stretch of the crotch panel 50. Preferably, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a greater resistance to stretching than the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 or the lifting member 42 and less resistance to stretching than prior art undergarments that do not conform to the user's pudenda area. Accordingly, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a higher longitudinal stretch modulus than any of the aforementioned front or rear panels and a lower stretch strength than certain stiff folds of the prior art. In particular, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a longitudinal stretch modulus of between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 500 g / inch (196.8 g / cm). Said module is measured using samples taken along the longitudinal center line L of the undergarment 20 (i.e. a portion of the crotch panel 50 can also contribute to the measured module). More preferably, the stretching module is between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 300 g / inch (118.1 g / cm). Particularly preferred crotch panels 50 of the present invention have a longitudinal stretch modulus, as measured along the longitudinal center line thereof, of between about 100 g / inch (39.4 g / cm) and about 200 g / inch (78.7 g / cm). While not limited by theory, said longitudinal stretch limitation is believed to transfer force from the rear panel 40 (particularly the lifting member 42 within it, and from the front panel 30 to the crotch panel 50 to provide a force This "force" transfer causes the crotch panel 50 in any catamenial device 200 disposed thereon to be held neatly against the pudenda area of the user (particularly along the longitudinal centerline L of the "z-direction" of the latter. the menstrual undergarment 20) through a wide range of user movements, More precisely, it has been found that the crotch panel 50 and the catamenial devices 200 disposed thereon are at least partially disposed between the distal ends of the lips of a user when a menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention is worn. It is important to note that the deviating force in the "z-direction" is higher along the longitudinal center line L (Figure 11) of the undergarment 20 of the present invention. That is, the first contact force with the body, as provided by the longitudinal stretch control member 42, is greater than the forces provided by the other portions of the crotch panel 50 that lie laterally outwardly of the control member. longitudinal stretch 42. It is believed that said increased force is particularly effective for lifting any absorbent article that may be placed on the crotch panel 50 to enter a tight relationship with the vaginal introitus and the user's urethra to allow for easy interception of body fluids that can be exuded from them. While it is important that the deviating force in the "z-direction" be higher along the longitudinal center line, there must be a second contact force with the body directed upward over substantially all of the outer surface of the user's lips . Said second contact force with the lower body causes that any absorbent article disposed in the crotch panel 50 also conforms to the labial surface, which provides a "seal" against the distant edges of the user's labia, further reducing the risk of body fluids flowing along the surface of the absorbent article to an edge thereof resulting in runoff. On the other hand, a loose garment of the prior art, such as that shown in Figures 3, 4, 9 and 10, does not provide said seal. The forces of contact with the body, as is the deviating force in the "z direction" mentioned above and the forces that cause the garment of the present invention to contact the external surface of the user's lips can be estimated using the method of body contact strength test described in the TEST METHODS section below. As will be noted, this test method uses pressure sensors so that these forces can be reported as pressure (ie, g / cm2). The combination of a first higher force along the longitudinal centerline L, a second force distributed on the outer labial surface, and a third force contribution by the elastics of the leg 62 (which will be described later) causes an absorbent article disposed on the crotch panel 50 takes the "modified" tip configuration shown in Figures 5-8. This configuration allows both the interception of bodily fluids near the exit point of the body and the additional leakage protection of a "seal" against the user's lips. In order to achieve this "modified" tip configuration, the proportion of the contact force with the body along the center line with the contact force with the body at the distant edge of the labia majora should be greater than 1: 1 when said forces are measured according to the method provided in the test methods section. Preferably, the ratio of center line force to the far edge force is greater than about 1.25: 1, more preferably, the ratio is greater than about 1.5: 1. Obviously, the current strength values are also important. If the force is too low, the garment will not hold an absorbent article in tight contact through a wide range of user movements. If the force is too high, discomfort may result. Suitably, the force along the longitudinal center line is greater than about 2 g / cm2. Preferably, in the first force in contact with the body (i.e. along the longitudinal center line) it is greater than about 2.1 g / cm2, more preferably greater than about 2.2 g / cm2. Suitably, the force is less than about 20 g / cm2, preferably less than about 15 g / cm2, more preferably, less than about 10 g / cm2. Likewise, the second force as measured at the apex of the labia majora is suitably greater than about 1 g / cm2, preferably greater than about 1.1 g / cm2, more preferably greater than about 1.2 g / cm2, and less than about 20 g / cm2. g / cm2, preferably less than about 15 g / cm2, more preferably less than about 10 g / cm2. This force transfer and the tight contact with the resulting body can be further demonstrated by comparing the Survey according to the method described in the Test Methods section below (this method is a modification of the method described in the US patent application with serial number 08 / 383,536, filed on behalf of Osborn III, et al., February 1, 1995, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference) for the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention and for undergarments of the prior art. These measurements are shown in Table 1, below.

Table 1 Comparative Measurements of Lifting Survey in millimeters (391 g of applied force) Interior Garment Tested Position 1 Position 2 Position 3 Present invention 21 30 38 Wonder Body ™ 1 14 23.5 33.5 Olga Secret Shapers®2 9 19.5 29 P. Short Menstrual Japanese3 10.5 15.5 25 Hanes Her Way4 4 8.5 23 1) Available from Sara Lee Intimates, Winston Salem, NC. 2) Available from Olga Company, Van Nuys, CA. 3) Available from UniCharm of Japan as Sofy Sports. 4) Available from Sara Lee Intimates, Winston Salem, NC.

It can be seen clearly from Table 1, that the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention has higher Uprightness (contact with the most tight body) in all positions of the test apparatus. The difference is more dramatic in Position 1, which, as described in the aforementioned application of Osborn III, is intended to correspond to the labial area of the user's body. Due to the aforementioned higher force along the center line L, the garment 20 of the present invention is able to provide this improved lift and the closest contact with the resulting body. The menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention preferably has a Lifting in Position 1 in the Lifting Test apparatus of more than approximately 16 millimeters, a Lifting in Position 2 of more than approximately 25 millimeters, and a Lifting in Position 3 greater than about 35 millimeters. More preferably, the Lifting in Position 1 is greater than approximately 18 millimeters, Lifting in Position 2 is greater than approximately 7 millimeters, and lifting in Position 3 is greater than approximately 36 millimeters. The undergarment 20 of the present invention is particularly comfortable for use (particularly in the pudenda area), without taking into account the tight conformity of the present undergarment with contact with the wearer's body. Interior technical underwear have tried to achieve compliance with the pudenda area by means of elastic lifting members, such as straps, or by means of a tight-fitting overall coverage trousers as can be seen in the Japanese menstrual shorts. Undergarments of any kind are often described as uncomfortable. One source of such discomfort, particularly for underwear of the belt type, is the pressure in the wearer's anus. The tissue surrounding the anus is particularly sensitive to pressure and the forces applied to the anus can cause discomfort. Belt-like undergarments, such as those described in the aforementioned U.S. Patent No. 3,608,551, typically utilize an elastically extensible member to provide a lifting force for sealing an absorbent article against a user's perineum. Said elastic members usually are attached to the undergarment in a place that is placed above a user's anus when the undergarment is worn. As a result, not only is the lifting force desirable to seal an absorbent article against the user's perineum but also an uncomfortable pressure on the wearer's anus. On the other hand, the undergarment 20 of the present invention distributes the deviating force in the "z-direction" mentioned above so that contact with the body is maintained through a high range of user movements if an unacceptable pressure on the anus of the user. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the forces distributed along the center line L of the present undergarment 20 are insulated at a point posterior to the anus and in the perineum so that the anus is partially bridged by the limb. longitudinal stretch control 52 with a resultant reduction in force in the anus. As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the longitudinal isolating control member 52 is positioned along the longitudinal center line L in the crotch panel 50. The longitudinal stretch control member 52 can be either an element separately attached to the crotch panel 50 or can be integrated into the crotch panel 50. Preferably, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 is integrated to the crotch panel 50. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 and the crotch panel 50 are integrally woven. As mentioned above, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 serves to limit the stretch, particularly the longitudinally oriented stretch towards the crotch panel 50. At this height, the stretch control member may comprise any material having a modulus of stretch greater than crotch panel 50. For example, the stretch control member may comprise a high modulus film material or even a single filament or monofilament strip having a relatively high modulus. For the preferred integrally woven longitudinal stretch control member 52 described above, the longitudinal stretch control member may comprise the same yarns used for the crotch panel where the yarns comprising the stretch control member 52 have been woven into a pattern known in the art as being limiting of stretching. For example, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 may comprise a tissue pattern wherein alternating courses thereof are double. Alternatively, an elastic yarn may be buoyant to provide the longitudinal stretch control member 52 with an additional stretch resistance as is also known in the art. Suitable yarns for the longitudinal stretch control member 52 are substantially the same yarns or yarn combinations as have been found to be suitable for the crotch panel 50. Angled Stretch Control Members The angled stretch control members 54 also they serve to control the stretching of the crotch panel 50. In particular, the angled stretch control members 54 provide a vector limiting the laterally oriented stretch in the crotch panel 50. Because there is also a longitudinally oriented stretch vector provided by the angled stretch control members 54, the angled stretch control members 54 also cause the crotch panel 50 and any catamenial device 200 placed thereon to curl up and around the outer surfaces of the lips of a user. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the angled stretch control members 54 help transfer the forces provided by the leg elastics 62, the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 to the crotch panel 50 resulting in this Curved cup type configuration. This transfer of force also appears to provide a strength of resistance which minimizes the narrowing of the crotch panel 50 in the longitudinal extension of the menstrual undergarment 20 (i.e. the Poisson narrowing is minimized). It is believed that this minimization helps reduce the movement of the crotch panel 50 relative to the user's body as the user moves. In other words, as best understood, the angled stretch control members 54 help to make the crotch panel 50 a "low motion zone" with a resultant reduction in relative movement between the user's body and the body. crotch panel 50. As a result, any absorbent article that can be placed in crotch panel 50 (eg, a catamenial device 200 as shown in Figure 12) will most likely remain in a constant relationship with the pudenda region of the user . As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the angled stretch control members 54 are positioned at an angle A relative to the longitudinal center line L in the crotch panel 50. The angled stretch control members 54 can be, either a separate element joined to the crotch panel 50 or can be integrated into the crotch panel 50. Preferably, the angled stretch control members 54 are integrated to the crotch panel 50. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the angled stretch control members 54 and the crotch panel 50 are integrally woven. It is believed that the angle A helps to control the degree of upward curvature provided by the force transfer mentioned above. If the angle A is too small, there is an insufficient transfer of force from the elastics of the leg 62 in such a way that the crotch panel incompletely wraps around the sides of the user's lips. If the angle A is too large, there is insufficient transfer of force from the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 such that there is reduced contact in the mount and the perineum. Preferably the angle A is between about 30 ° and about 75 °. More preferably, the angle A is between about 45 ° and about 75 °. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the angle A is approximately 60 °. It can also be seen very clearly in Figure 11, that the angled stretch control members 54 are preferably longitudinally symmetrical. That is, the angled stretch control members 54 are preferably provided in opposite pairs wherein one of each pair extends laterally outwardly at an angle A of the longitudinal stretch control member 52 toward the elastics of the leg 62. Although other embodiments having different numbers of said pairs have been contemplated, the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises two pairs of angled stretch control members 54 with a pair on each side of the transverse centerline T. It is believed that a plurality is desirable. of angled stretch control members 54 because said plurality provides a uniform distribution of force such that the crotch panel 50 uniformly wraps the outer surfaces of the wearer's lips when a menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention is worn. . Other embodiments of the present invention having different orientations and positions for the angled stretch control members 54 are also contemplated. For example, while the angled stretch control members 54 are shown in Figure 11 as extending forward and outward (i.e., toward the front panel 30), the angled stretch control members 54 can also extend toward back and out (ie, towards the rear panel 40). The angle A for said modalities is still an acute angle and has the same ranges as described above. In addition, modalities on the same portion of the plurality of stretch control members 52 extend forward and outwardly that a portion of said limbs extending backward and outward is also contemplated. In one example, not shown but similar to the undergarment 20 shown in Figure 11, there are no angled stretch control members 54 positioned on the front portion of the undergarment 20 (i.e., the portion of the center line side). transverse T which also contains the front panel 30) but two angled, backward-facing stretch control members 54 are placed in the back portion of the undergarment 20. When evaluated for the body fit, this embodiment of the present invention had the performance comparable with the undergarment 20 described above. In a manner similar to the longitudinal stretch control member 52, the angled stretch control members 54 serve to limit the stretch in the crotch panel. In particular, the angled stretch control members serve to limit the lateral stretch. Preferably, an angled stretch control 54 has a side stretch modulus of between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 500 g / inch (56.8 g / cm). More preferably, the stretching module is between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 300 g / inch (118.1 g / cm). Particularly preferred crotch panels 50 for use in the present invention have angled stretch control members 54 with a stretch modulus of between about 100 g / inch (39.4 g / cm) and about (200 g / inch (78.7 g / cm) The angled stretch control members 54 may substantially comprise the same materials that are suitable for the longitudinal stretch control members 52 since both elements tend to limit the stretching of the crotch panel 50. For the control members of Preferred, integrally angulated stretch 54, mentioned above, the angled stretch control members 54 may comprise the same yarns used for the crotch panel where the yarns comprising the angled stretch control members 54 are woven in a known pattern in the technique as being limiting stretching, for example, the The angled stretch control members 54 may comprise a woven pattern wherein the alternating courses of these are double. Alternatively, a floating stitch pattern can be used to provide the angled stretch control members 54 with an additional stretch resistance as is also known in the art. Suitable yarns for the angled stretch control members 54 are substantially the same yarns as have been found to be suitable for the crotch panel 50.

Elastic Leg Openings As can be seen in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention is also provided with a pair of leg elastic openings 60. As mentioned above, the front panel 30, the back panel 40 and crotch panel 50 cooperate to define the periphery of each leg opening 60. This periphery is provided with a leg elastic 62 for the flexibility of opening 60. Leg elastics 62 cooperate with the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 to provide a diverting force in the "z-direction" with the crotch panel 50 through the entire range of movement of the wearer. In particular, the leg elastics provide the edge 56 remote from the crotch panel 50 (i.e., the edge of the crotch panel 50 which helps define the leg opening 60) with a diverting force in the "z-direction" that lifts the edge 56 causing the crotch panel 50 to conform to the outer surface of the user's lips. Stated another way and as shown more clearly in Figures 1 and 2, the nature of the leg cutting opening 60 is also preferably designed to direct the contraction force of the elastics of the leg 62 in a more vertical direction of what could be possible if a more circular configuration could be used for the opening of the leg 60. That is, the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 and the crotch panel 50, and the elastics of the leg 62 cooperate to provide a catamenial device 200 which can be placed in the crotch panel 50 with a uniform upward force against the body of the user in such a way that the catamenial device is held tightly against the pudenda area of the user through a wide range of movements of the user . The elastics of the leg 62 also preferably cooperate with the angled stretch control members 54 to provide a force vector that causes the crotch panel 50 and any catamenial device 200 that can be placed thereon to wrap around the legs. external surfaces of the user's lips. While the elastics of the leg 62 must provide a minimum contracting force around the periphery of the opening of the leg 60 for a proper fit of the undergarment 20, it is important that the contraction force is not so great as to cause discomfort to the user. Applicants have found that a contraction force of at least 20 g is necessary to minimize the risk of forming a space around the periphery of the opening of the leg 34. Preferably the contraction force should be at least about 40 g. More preferably, the contraction force should be at least 80 g. By minimizing the stretching module across the range of elastic extensions expected around the site of use it also minimizes the user's risk of discomfort. That is, if the leg elastics are designed to provide a contraction force of approximately 80g in a typical extension, the force should not substantially increase for larger extensions that may occur due to a different circumference of the user's leg. or due to the movement of the user. Applicants have found that a stretch modulus for leg elastics between approximately 540 g / in (213 g / cm) and approximately 590 g / in (232 g / cm) provides a good balance between maintaining an adequate fit and minimizing the discomfort of the user. Preferably, the stretch modulus of the leg elastics is between about 550 g / inch (216 g / cm) and about 580 g / inch (228 g / cm). The methods for measuring elastic shrinkage and stretch modulus are shown in the TEST METHODS section below. When such elastic leg materials are used as the leg elastics 62 in the garment 20 of the present invention, a third contact force with the body of at least about 5 g / cm2 is provided (a contact force with the body of less than this value has been reported as too weak by the users). Preferably, the third contact force with the body is greater than about 7 g / cm2. It has been found that garments that have third forces of contact with the body in the order of 30 g / cm2 cause a high level of discomfort reported during their use. Therefore, suitable garments have a third contact force with the body of less than this level. Preferably, the third contact force with the body is less than about 20 g / cm2. A particularly preferred garment 20 has a third contact force with the body between about 5 g / cm2 and about 10 g / cm2. This third contact force with the body is measured using a method similar to that described in the TEST METHODS section below. The main difference is that these tests are done by placing a cylinder that has a circumference of 60 cm in the opening of the leg 60 to extend the elastic of the leg 62 instead of on a dummy. The pressure sensor is placed between the elastic of the leg and the cylinder to measure the third force of contact with the body. The leg elastics 62 can be attached to the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 and the inter-leg panel 50 around the periphery of the leg opening 60 using means known to those skilled in the art. Specifically, the leg elastics 62 are attached to that portion of the side edges 25, 26, 27 and 28, which will surround the opening of the leg 60 (i.e., form the periphery thereof). For example, the elastics of the leg 62 can be attached to the cover portion 30 and the crotch panel using adhesive means or by mechanical means, such as seams. For the preferred woven menstrual garment 20 of the present invention, the leg elastics 62 are preferably attached to the front panel 30, the back panel 40, and the crotch panel 50 by stitching thereto.

Optional Features When used as a system with a catamenial device 200, the menstrual undergarment 20 of the present invention may also comprise a fastening system for reliably securing the catamenial device 200 in the crotch panel 50. For example, the catamenial device 200 may be provided with a first portion of a cohesive material and the crotch panel 50 may be provided with a second portion of a cohesive material. As used herein, a "cohesive material" is one that preferentially adheres to itself and not to other materials. Alternatively, the garment-oriented surface of the catamenial device 200 designed to be used with the undergarment 20 of the present invention may comprise a skin-compatible mechanical fastening material comprising a substrate or a surface with a range of teeth in the form of a plurality of small filamentary projections (or in the form of hair) disposed thereon as described in the co-pending application serial number 60 / 065,294, filed on November 12, 1998 with the names of Carstens, and others, whose description it is incorporated here by reference. Said projections are capable of easily adhering to a woven material (for example the crotch panel 50 of the undergarment of the present invention), and have a sufficiently desirable holding force even if the support garment is stretched or contracted.

Still another alternative fastening material may comprise a material having a mushroom-shaped or "T" -shaped appearance when viewed sideways. A particularly preferred "T" shaped mechanical fastening material for use with the catamenial device 200 is a material known as TP200 available from 3M Personal Care and Related Products Division of Menomonie, Wl.

The crotch panel 50 may also optionally be provided with signals (not shown) to assist the user in optimally placing a catamenial device 200 therein. For example, said signals may contain marks on the elastics of the leg that may allow the user to properly place wings that may be provided in the catamenial device 200 to be used with it. Alternatively, said signals may comprise markers along the longitudinal center line L which may allow the user to reliably place a catamenial device 200 each time a new device is placed on the body making contact with the surface "ie interior "of the crotch panel 50. The undergarment 20 of the present invention can also be used with a wide variety of catamenial devices and other types of absorbent articles. Exemplary devices are described in the commonly assigned co-pending patent application with serial number, filed under the names of Carstens et al., On the same date of the present application (Case with Attorney Document No. 6923M), the description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Said absorbent articles and the undergarment 20 of the present invention can also be used together to provide a highly efficient system comprising the absorbent article and the undergarment of the present invention. These systems are described in the co-pending patent application commonly assigned with serial number, presented with the names of Carstens and others on the same date of the present application (Case with No. of Attorney Document 7320), whose description is incorporated here for reference.

Inner Garment Training A template for the menstrual undergarment 20 is first knitted in tubular form using means known in the art. In particular, the front panel 30, the rear panel 40, the crotch panel 50 are integrally woven. The rear panel 40 is provided with a lifting member 42 having said band integrally woven therein. Similarly, the crotch panel 50 is provided with an integrally woven longitudinal stretch control member 52 and, preferably, a plurality of angled stretch control members 54. The appropriate fabric patterns described above are used. The tubular template is then slotted longitudinally and opened. Excess material that could otherwise fill the leg openings 60 is removed to form a flat template for the menstrual undergarment 20 having a shape similar to the plan view of the menstrual undergarment 20 shown in the Figure 11. As further shown in Figure 11, the insole for the menstrual undergarment has a front end edge 23, a trailing end edge 24, front side edges 25, 26 and rear side edges 37A, 37B. The elastics of the leg 62 are attached to the undergarment 20 around the periphery of the openings of the leg 60 as mentioned above. The insole for the menstrual undergarment 20 then bends around the transverse center line T and the opposite portions of the side edges that lie between the leg opening 60 and the end edges 23, 24 are joined (e.g. the edges) to form side seams 32, 34 by completing the assembly of the menstrual undergarment 20 (that is, the side edge portion 25 that lies between the end of the leg elastic 62 on the front panel 30 and the edge of the leg). end 24 is attached to the side edge portion 27 which lies between the end of the elastics of the leg 62 which are on the rear panel 40 and the end edge 23 to form the seam 32. The side edge 26 is attached to the side edge 28 in a similar manner to form the seam 34). Alternatively, tubular woven template portions can be cut to provide leg opening 60. For example, a tubular template can be flattened, such that the inner faces of the tubing make contact with each other and a pair of edges is formed. longitudinally oriented laterals. The leg opening precursors can then be formed by cutting matching portions having a semicircular, semi elliptical, or other desired configuration of the transversely opposite side edges at regular intervals along the planar template. The undergarment insoles are then formed by transversely cutting the flat tubular template in a predetermined repeated pattern wherein a first cross-section is made through the material that was not removed when the precursors of the leg opening were formed to create a precursor of the crotch portion, and a second cross section is made across the full width of the flat tubular template forming the opening of the waist 21. The elastics of the leg 62 are placed around the periphery of each leg opening 60 and they join this one The two ends formed by the first cross section are joined by a single transverse seam to complete the crotch panel 50. The menstrual undergarment 20 is then terminated by placing the elastic waistband 22 around the periphery of the opening of the waist 21 joining the Elastic waistband 22 to this one. The following examples serve to indicate the particular benefits of different aspects of the present invention.

EXAMPLES Example 1 This example is intended to demonstrate the "second skin" fit of the undergarment 20 of the present invention. Specifically, the front photographs of the crotch region of the undergarment of the present invention and a woven undergarment of the prior art were taken while a medical model used each of the undergarments. The photographs were taken with the model standing with the legs open in two positions: 1) a closed position (10 mm space between the thighs) and 2) an open position (50 mm space between the thighs). All photographs were taken at a distance of 1 foot (30 centimeters) from the pudenda area of the model. Figures 7 and 8 show the undergarment of the present invention when the legs of the model were in the open and closed positions. Figures 9 and 10 show the same model in the same two positions using a woven undergarment of the prior art (Fruit of the Loom® obtainable from Fuit of the Loom, Inc. of Bowing Green, KY). The results of this test are discussed in the aforementioned Crotch Panel section.

Example 2 This example is intended to show a comparison of the contact force with the body between the undergarments according to the present invention and various underwear of the prior art.

Samples of the undergarment of the present invention and various prior art undergarments were evaluated for contact strength with the body according to the method described in the TEST METHODS section. The results of this experiment are shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Comparison of Contact Strength with the body Body Contact Force Inner Garment Type of Garment Central Line Larger Lips Strength Ratio (g / cm2) (g / cm2) Present invention N / A 2.35 1.33 1.76 Wing EC 83021 A 1.94 2.58 0.75 W¡ngEC84001 A 1.10 1.57 0.70 Fruit of the Loom3 B 0.006 0.68 0.01 Wacoal2 C 0.50 2.52 0.20 Wonder Body ™ 4 C 0.07 0.77 0.09 Olga 2903-285 C 0 0.50 0 Olga 2903-185 C 0 0.29 0 1. Available from Wacoal Corp. of Kyoto, Japan. 2. Available from Wacoal Corp. of Kyoto, Japan. 3. Available from Fruit of the Loom, Inc. Bowling Green, KY. 4. Available from Sara Lee Intimates, Winton-Sal em, NC 5. Available from Olga, Company, Van Nuys, CA. A Japanese Menstrual Shorts B Non-Elastic Shorts C Elastic Shorts The differences in the proportion of contact force with the body along the centerline and the labial strength between the product are clear.

TEST METHODS Survey Test Introduction This test involves the use of a survey measurement test apparatus that is configured to roughly simulate the different areas of the female body in which the sample must fit adjacent to achieve tight body contact. The survey measurement test apparatus comprises two curved pieces of PLEXIGLÁS which intend to simulate the portions of the user's body with which the crotch of the user's undergarments makes contact during use. The apparatus contains a longitudinally oriented groove-shaped opening which aims to simulate the space between the user's lips and the division between the user's buttocks (the "gluteal groove"). The sample is attached to clips, which are adjusted to simulate the forces exerted when the women's pants are pulled towards the wearer's body. The distance that the middle part of the sample is placed vertically within the slot-like opening is measured to provide a relative measurement of contact with the body.

Apparatus Measurement Apparatus The survey measurement apparatus of survey lifting comprises six pieces of PLEXIGLÁS arranged as shown in Figures 13-18. The lifting test apparatus 100 has an inner surface 100A, an outer surface 100B, a front portion 100C and a rear portion 100D. The PLEXIGLÁS pieces include two 1/4 inch (0.63 cm) thick pieces 102 and 104 which have a height H of 150 mm, a width W of 135 mm, a S length of 300 millimeters when assembled in relation to the panel as shown in Figures 13-15 and a radius of curvature of the inner surface of arched pieces, J (as shown in the Figure 15), of 150 millimeters. A pair of PLEXIGLÁS 106 rectangular support legs are mounted on the sides of the arched pieces of PLEXIGLÁS as shown in Figure 13. Support legs 106 are assembled perpendicularly to the arched pieces so that the bottom 108 of the arched pieces is kept at least 20 millimeters above the table in which the test apparatus 100 is placed. The arched pieces 102 and 104 are connected by a pair of hinges 110 that allow the arched pieces to open at 90 °. The arcuate pieces 102 and 104 are held together in the transverse center line R of the test apparatus by a pivot latch 112 when closed. The arched pieces have a longitudinally oriented central slot (or "slot") aperture 114 of 8 3/8 inch (212 millimeters) long (as measured throughout of the curvature of the outer surface 100B of the arcuate parts) which varies linearly in width of 6 millimeters in the portion 114A of the groove located closer to the front of the portion 100C of the apparatus The test portion (the portion of the apparatus intended to represent the front part of the user's body to 19 millimeters in the portion 114B of the slot located closest to the rear part 100D of the apparatus.

PLEXIGLAS surrounding the slot 114 are bevelled at an angle of 45 ° so that the slot is wider in the lower surface 100B than the upper part of the arched pieces. Both ends of slot 114 are rounded. The arched pieces have additional channels in the front and rear part of the slot 114 which are oriented along the longitudinal center line of the slot. These channels provide a mechanism within which the screws holding the clips 118 can be slid to adjust the portion of the clips relative to the slot. The arched pieces 102 and 104 are provided with tape 116 which may be marked with signs to indicate the proper position for holding the ends of the sample in the tweezers 118. The front arcuate part 102 of the test apparatus is also provided with a pair of three-dimensional curved pieces of PLEXIGLÁS 120 that are intended to represent the user's labia majora. The curved pieces 120 have the configuration shown in Figures 15-18 and the dimensions shown in Table 3 below. The curved pieces are centered around the groove and are separated 36 millimeters (in the center) as described in Table 3 and their rear end edges 120B are separated from the trailing edge of the first arched plate 102 which is defined by the angle g of 8 ° described in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Dimensions of Parts Curves Dimension Size (in mm) to 7 mm b 16 mm c 36 degrees d • 16 mm e 6 mm (radius) f 36 mm g 8 degrees Weights Sufficient weight to place the total weight of 391 grams on the sample (including the weight of the tweezers (to be described later)). Two-inch (5 cm) wide, finger-operated, spring-loaded tweezers (Boston No. 2 clips manufactured by Hunt Manufacturing Co. Statesville, N.C.) to hold weight to the sample. Built-in Device according to Figure 14. Gauge Measurement of the Punch Chamber Procedure The undergarment is placed on the test apparatus 100 with the front part of the waist opening directed towards the front portion of the test apparatus 100C . It is ensured that the support legs 106 are in the leg openings of the undergarment. The waistband is pulled over the front portion 100C and the rear portion 100D. The replacement of the undergarment in the test apparatus 100 is to ensure that it is centered on it, it is ensured that the front edge of the crotch portion of the undergarment is on the front of the front end edge of the curved pieces 120A (see 15 and 16). A properly placed undergarment is shown in Figure 18. Weights 124 are hung from the clip 118 at the end of the sample on the back portion of the test apparatus. The weight is slowly hung from the rear waistband of the sample undergarment by holding the clip 118 to the latter as it is placed over the waist edge of the test apparatus. The weight should not be dropped, nor should sudden force be applied with the weight when the pad is hanging freely. The weight at the end of the sample in the rear portion of the test device places a stretching force on the sample such that the sample tends to want to form a straight path between the clips. At this height, the sample will move to enter a tight contact within the groove as the sample is able to achieve under the test conditions. The weight is removed after 5 seconds.

The test apparatus 100 is turned upward so that it rests on its support legs 106. The gauge measurement device of the Punch Chamber is then used to measure the distance the sample is raised within the slot from the exterior surface 100B of the arched plates (the base line). Punch Chamber 128 comprises a cover with a plurality of light weight punches (28.4 milligrams) vertically oriented, spaced apart, narrow (1.1 millimeters in diameter) 146, arranged in a row through the device. The punches can be moved in the vertical direction. The cover of the Punches Chamber has a glass window in the front and back so that the height of the punches can be observed when the Punches Chamber is in use. A ruler 148 marked in the magnification per millimeter is provided along the side of the punches before placing the sample in the test apparatus. The Punches Chamber is placed on the test apparatus to be mounted on the test apparatus. A measurement to determine the distance that the punches fall to the bottom surface of the arched plates are taken in each of the desirable positions. These measurements serve as the baseline values for the test. The distance the punches fall above or below the baseline is then measured by slowly lowering the punches with the sample in place. It should be noted that the groove is sufficiently wide that several punches can fall between the edges of the groove in several places. If that happens, the reading taken is that of the highest punch. The first measurement is taken at a point that is 47 mm forward of the transverse center line R of the test apparatus. This distance is intended to correspond to the area of the lips of the user's body. (This distance of 47 mm, and the next two distance measurements are measured along the curvature of the inner surface 100A of the test apparatus). The second measurement is taken at a point that is 17 millimeters away to the rear of the transverse center line of the test apparatus. This is intended to correspond to the user's perineum. The third measurement is taken at a point that is 70 millimeters away to the rear of the transverse center line of the test apparatus. This intends to correspond with the "glute groove" of the user. These values are recorded. The above procedure is repeated for at least two representative samples. The measurements obtained are then averaged to provide a value for the survey at each of the locations.

Modulus of Stretching and Elastic Contractions Purpose This method aims to quantify a force that can be compared to the force exerted on the user's body by materials that can be extended and that can be used in an undergarment over a range of extension similar to that seen on the site of use of an undergarment.

Method The method described and the INDA (Association of the Non-Woven Fabrics Industry) Standard Test 110.1-92 are suitable. They are used in the following established conditions: Reference Length: 2 inches (5.08 cm).

Head Speed: 10 inches / minute (25.4 cm / minute.

Cell Load Test Machine: Appropriate for the expected force range, model 5564, available from Instron Corporation Canton, MA, is suitable.

Sample Width: 1 inch (2.54 cm). For sample less than 1 inch (2.54 cm) wide, measure the width of the sample and adjust the force measured by the ratio of 1 inch (2.54 cm) to the measured width.

Sample direction: Samples with longitudinal stretch modulus are cut so that the sample width is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Samples with side stretch modulus are cut so that the sample width is perpendicular to the lateral direction.

Sample Size: At least three samples per tested material.

Calculation Force0: Force at the beginning of the data collection (g / inch or g / cm).

Strength25: Strength at 25% elongation (g / inch or g / cm).

Elastic Contractions = Force25 Stretch Module = (Force25 - Force0) /0.25 The average and standard deviation are reported for elastic contractions (leg elastics only) for the stretch module.

Contact Force with the Body Introduction This test aims to determine the force exerted on the user's body by the elastic inner garment. A commercially available mannequin is used to minimize the error due to the variation of body dimension.

Apparatus Mannequin The right one is a woman, an anatomically correct mannequin as it is used to train medical personnel in catheterization techniques. The manikin has the following dimensions: thigh circumference-54 cm, waist circumference-92 cm, hip circumference-95 cm, and waist front to back waist through the groin-59 cm and can be obtained from NASCO of Ft Atkinson Wl with catalog number LF 856. Pressure Sensors: Ultra-thin piezo resistant pressure sensors (5mm x 15mm, 0-10mm Hg pressure range, with biomedical lead wires) as obtainable from Vistamedical, Ltd from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Computer Pentinum® base computer with 8 MB RAM using the Windows 95® operating system. A laptop computer as available from Dell Computer Corp. of Austin, TX. as the Latitude LM model is adequate.

Electronic Interface Module Model FSA-C-2-1.00 as available from Vistamedical, Ltd. of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

FSA Data Acquisition Software Version 3.1 as available from Vistamedical, Ltd of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Method Connect the lead wires of each sensor to the interface module according to the manufacturer's instructions. Calibrate each sensor by placing the sensor in an inflated air bladder (7.5 g / cm2) and subjecting the sensor to known pressures (up to 7.5 g / cm2) provided by a second bladder of air that is placed in the first bladder, the bladders are confined inside a containment box as supplied by the manufacturer. The FSA software acquires the signal produced and compares the signal with the calibration pressure which is provided by the operator. This comparison is used to build a calibration table which is stored as a file on the computer.

Attach the sensors to the dummy 400 (Figures 19A, 19B, 20A, and 20B) using double-sided transfer tape (available from 3M of St. Paul, MN as part No. 950). A first pair of sensors 410, 415 is placed at the apex of the lower lips of the manikin centered on the urethra of the manikin. A second pair of sensors 420, 425 is placed at the apex of the lips of the manikin at a position 6 mm before sensors 410, 415 (Figures 19A and 19B). A third pair of sensors 430, 435 is placed on the surface of the buttocks of the manikin at a position 32 mm after the posterior commissure of the lower lips manikin (Figures 19A and 19B). The fourth and last set of sensors 440, 445 is placed on the surface of the manikin mount at a position 64 mm before the center of the manikin's urethra (Figures 20A and 20B). Pull the garment on the dummy so that it is placed slowly and symmetrically around the coronal centerline of the manikin. The garment should be raised to be moderately tight. Reproduction can be improved by recording the pressures on sensors 430, 435, 440 and 445 for a first garment and placing the subsequent garments to obtain almost equal pressure. Acquire force data from sensors 410, 415, 420 and 425 using the interference module and the software according to the manufacturer's instructions. A minimum of four samples should be evaluated. If desired, the acquired data can be exported in a spreadsheet file for further analysis by following the instructions provided with the software. 5. Report the average standard deviation for each sample. When the sample is compared, known statistical techniques can be used (for example, Analysis of Variation). The descriptions of all patents, patent applications (and any patents issued therefrom, as well as any corresponding published foreign patent applications), and the publications mentioned in this description are incorporated herein by reference. However, it is not expressly admitted that any of the documents incorporated herein by reference teach or describe the present invention. Since particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended to cover in the appended claims all changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (20)

1. - A garment for holding a disposable absorbent article in close contact with the body, the garment has a longitudinal central line defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral center line defining a lateral direction and a waist opening that allows entry thereto, the garment comprises: a frontal region; a rear region having at least two sections; a lifting member operatively associated with the rear region, the lifting member comprises at least a portion and is positioned in a symmetrical relationship with respect to the longitudinal center line, wherein the lifting member separates the rear region into at least one two sections; a crotch region positioned between and attached to the frontal region and the rear region; a pair of opposed leg openings having a periphery defined by the front region, the back region and the crotch region; and a longitudinal stretch control member operatively associated with the lifting member, the longitudinal stretch control member is positioned along the longitudinal center line in the crotch region.

2 - A garment according to claim 1, wherein the lifting member comprises a single portion disposed along the longitudinal center line of the rear region.

3. - A garment according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal stretch control member has a trailing end and the lifting member comprises a pair of opposed portions, each of the portions extending upwardly from the trailing end of the trailing member. rising towards the waistband and laterally outward at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal center line.

4. A garment according to claim 2, wherein the garment further comprises a plurality of angled stretch control members positioned in the crotch region along the longitudinal stretch control member in a symmetrical pattern, the members Angled stretch control members extend outwardly from the longitudinal stretch control member to the leg openings at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal stretch control member.

5. A garment according to claim 4, wherein the garment comprises a woven material and the lifting member is integrally woven with the first and second section of the rear region, the longitudinal stretch control member being integrally woven with the crotch region, and the angulated stretch control members are integrally woven with the crotch region.

6. A garment according to claim 5, wherein the lifting member is woven using a fabric pattern that has less longitudinal stretch than a simple woven pattern.

7. - A garment according to claim 5, wherein the longitudinal stretch control member comprises a fabric pattern that has less longitudinal stretch than the fully woven pattern.

8. A garment according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal stretch control member provides a first contact force with the body and portions of the crotch region that are laterally outward of the longitudinal stretch control member. they provide a second contact force with the body and the ratio of the first contact force with the body to the second contact force with the body is more than 1: 1.

9. A garment according to claim 8, wherein the first contact force with the body is greater than about 2.0 g / cm2.

10. A garment according to claim 1, wherein the openings of the leg are provided with an elastic member arranged around the periphery, which provides a third contact force with the body, the third contact force with the body is less than about 30 g / cm2.

11. A garment according to claim 1, wherein each of the sections of the rear region has a longitudinal stretching module, the lifting member has a longitudinal stretching module, the crotch region has a stretching module. longitudinal, and the longitudinal stretch control member has a longitudinal stretching module, the longitudinal stretching module of the lifting member is larger than the longitudinal stretching module of any of the sections and the longitudinal stretching module of the control member of Longitudinal stretch is greater than the longitudinal stretch module of the crotch region.

12. A garment according to claim 11, wherein the longitudinal stretching module of the longitudinal stretching control member is larger than the longitudinal stretching module of the lifting member.

13. A garment according to claim 11, wherein the longitudinal stretch modulus of the rear region is between about 1 g / inch (0.4 g / cm) and about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm).

14. A garment according to claim 11, wherein the longitudinal stretching module of the lifting member is between about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm) and about 110.0 g / inch (43.3 g / cm).

15. A garment according to claim 1, wherein the front region has a lateral stretch module, each of the portions of the rear region has a lateral stretch module, and the crotch region has a stretch modulus. laterally, the lateral stretch modulus of the crotch region is less than or equal to the lateral stretch modulus of the frontal region, and less than or equal to the lateral stretch modulus of any of the portions of the rear region.

16. - A garment according to claim 15, wherein the crotch region has a lateral stretch modulus between about 1 g / inch (0.4 g / cm) and about 50 g / inch (19.7 g / cm).

17. A garment according to claim 2, wherein the crotch region has a Lifting of at least about 16 mm in a Position 1 when measured according to the Lifting Test.

18. A garment according to claim 2, wherein the crotch region has a Lifting of at least about 25 mm in Position 2 when measured according to the Lifting Test.

19. A garment for fastening a disposable absorbent article in a tight contact with the body, the garment has a longitudinal central line defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral central line defining a lateral direction defining a lateral direction and comprising: an elastic waistband; a frontal region; a rear region having first and second sections; a lifting member positioned along the longitudinal centerline between the first and second sections of the rear region and attached thereto; a crotch region positioned between and attached to the front region and the back region, the crotch region has a pair of distant edges disposed laterally outwardly of the longitudinal center line; a pair of elastic leg openings; and a longitudinal stretch control member disposed along the longitudinal center line in the crotch region; wherein, when the undergarment is worn, the lifting member, the longitudinal stretch control member, the front region, and the back region cooperate to provide a first contact force with the body along the control member of the body. longitudinal stretching and the leg elastics provide a third contact force with the body with the distant edges of the crotch region and the longitudinal stretch control member and the leg elastics cooperate in such a way that there is a second contact force with the body in the portion of the crotch region that lies between the longitudinal stretch control member and the distant edges and the crotch region has a modified tip configuration.

20. A garment according to claim 19, wherein the proportion of the first contact force with the body with the second contact force with the body is greater than 1: 1 when the garment is evaluated according to the method of Force Test Contact with the body.