A process of forming a shaped, dimensionally stable tampon includes the steps of: radially compressing a tampon blank to form a dimensionally stable intermediate pledget having an intermediate pledget diameter and a longitudinal axis; placing the intermediate pledget into a hollow carrier and inserting the intermediate pledget and hollow carrier into a mold; urging the intermediate pledget into the mold via a ram bearing on an end of the intermediate pledget contained within the hollow carrier and withdrawing the hollow carrier from the mold to permit the exposed end of the intermediate pledget to substantially fill the mold and to form the shaped, dimensionally stable tampon; removing the shaped, dimensionally stable tampon from the mold; and enclosing the shaped, dimensionally stable tampon in a primary package that conforms to the shape thereof. The mold has an access opening through which the hollow carrier can be withdrawn.

Tampons including an elongate body and a removal string extending from a removal end of the elongate body. The tampons may include a flow path that directs menses across the elongate body. The tampons may include a plurality of longitudinal ribs crossing the flow path. The plurality of longitudinal ribs facilitate expansion of the elongate body.

Tampons including an elongate body and a removal string extending from a removal end of the elongate body. The tampons may include an absorbent material and a spiral flow path that directs menses across the elongate body. The spiral flow path includes at least one complete turn around the longitudinal axis of the elongate body.

The present invention introduces a tampon with an integrated device designed for improved insertion, and removal, and leak prevention. The device comprises a flexible, nonpermeable wall, hollow to enable finger-assisted insertion and featuring a removal aid element attached to the bottom end of the wall for easy, hygienic extraction. Additionally, the wall is equipped with ridges that conform to the vaginal wall, enhancing the seal to prevent menstrual fluid leakage and block the absorption of external fluids. In other embodiments, a smoothed wall is offered. This invention eliminates the need for separate applicators, allows the device to compact for discrete portability, and significantly enhances user comfort and effectiveness in fluid management.