Absorbent article with test strip for vaginal discharge, and test strip for vaginal discharge for use in absorbent article

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article that enables a grasp of the appropriate period for trying to conceive at an earlier timing than before, and a test strip therefor.　An absorbent article of the present disclosure has a test strip for detecting luteinizing hormone (LH) from vaginal discharge by an immunochromatographic method. This test strip is configured to estimate that a wearer of the absorbent article is in a period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation.

Description

Absorbent article having a vaginal discharge test strip and vaginal discharge test strip for use in an absorbent article

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article having a vaginal discharge test strip. The present invention also relates to a vaginal discharge test strip for use in an absorbent article. The present disclosure also includes Invention B, which will be described later.

[0002] Knowing the day of ovulation in advance is important for women who wish to become pregnant. Testing for luteinizing hormone (LH) in urine is widely used as a method for predicting the day of ovulation.

[0003] Furthermore, an absorbent article having a detection site based on immunochromatography is known (Patent Document 1). This absorbent article can detect human excrement components via an antigen-antibody reaction, thereby enabling the state of health to be ascertained.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-132724

[0005] In conventional ovulation prediction methods, particularly those using urinary LH, the predicted ovulation date is often close, resulting in missed opportunities due to insufficient timing for trying to conceive. Furthermore, prediction of the ovulation date based on the menstrual cycle has low accuracy in identifying the ovulation date, resulting in insufficient results from trying to conceive. In the context of this disclosure, "trying to conceive" refers to sexual intercourse for the purpose of conceiving a child.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional methods for predicting the day of ovulation that use urine as a detection target have problems in terms of convenience, and also have problems in that the detection operation and obtaining the results require time and effort.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that can determine the optimum period for trying to conceive earlier than conventionally possible. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that can determine the optimum period for trying to conceive earlier than conventionally possible and with relatively high accuracy.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that enable easier prediction of the day of ovulation than conventional methods.

[0009] One embodiment of the absorbent article is an absorbent article having a test strip that uses immunochromatography to detect luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, and the test strip is configured to estimate that the wearer of the absorbent article is in a period ranging from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation.

[0010] Absorbent articles according to other aspects include the following X1 to X20: <Aspect X1> An absorbent article having a test strip using immunochromatography for detecting luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, wherein the test strip detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 10 mIU / mL (particularly 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL) of luteinizing hormone as a positive value. <Aspect X2> The absorbent article according to Aspect X1, wherein the test strip has a width of 3 mm or less. <Aspect X3> The absorbent article of Aspect X1 or 2, wherein the test strip comprises: a first member that comes into contact with vaginal discharge; a second member containing a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge; and a third member having an indicator portion containing a capture antibody, wherein the capture antibody is capable of capturing a complex formed by the binding of the labeled antibody with the luteinizing hormone, wherein the luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to migrate from the first member to the indicator portion of the third member via the second member, and wherein the indicator portion of the third member changes color when the capture antibody captures the complex. <Aspect X4> The absorbent article of Aspect X3, wherein the first member, the second member, and the third member are stacked in this order at least partially overlapping one another, and wherein the total thickness of the first member, the second member, and the third member in the stacking direction is 1.5 mm or less. <Aspect X5> The absorbent article of Aspect X3 or X4, wherein the first member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of 0.5 to 5 μm (or a fineness of 0.01 to 0.1 dtex), and the second member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of 10 to 40 μm (or a fineness of 2 to 6 dtex). <Aspect X6> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X3 to X5, wherein a fiber diameter R1 of the fibers constituting the first member and a fiber diameter R2 of the fibers constituting the second member satisfy the relationship 5≦(R2 / R1)≦20. <Aspect X7> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X3 to X5, wherein a fineness D1 of the fibers constituting the first member and a fineness D2 of the fibers constituting the second member satisfy the relationship 50≦(D2 / D1)≦200.<Aspect X8> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X3 to X7, satisfying at least one of the following: (a) the second member has a basis weight of 100 gsm or more; (b) the total thickness of the first member, the second member, and the third member is 1.5 mm or less, and the thickness of the second member accounts for 30% or more of this total thickness; (b) the second member has a basis weight of 0.05 to 0.80 g / m. ３<Aspect X9> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects X3 to X8, wherein the labeled antibody comprises a colorant having a particle size of 250 nm to 500 nm (preferably 280 to 450 nm, more preferably 300 nm to 400 nm). <Aspect X10> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects X1 to X9, wherein the absorbent article has a top sheet, and wherein, during use of the absorbent article, the vaginal discharge reaches the test strip via the top sheet. <Aspect X11> The absorbent article according to Aspect X10, wherein the detection is carried out by bringing at least a portion of the top sheet into direct contact with the vagina. <Aspect X12> The absorbent article according to Aspect X10 or 11, wherein the basis weight of the top sheet is 20 gsm or less. <Aspect X13> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects X10 to X12, wherein the thickness of the top sheet is 1 mm or less. <Aspect X14> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X10 to X13, wherein the single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is 8.0 dtex or less. <Aspect X15> The absorbent article of Aspect X10, wherein the basis weight of the top sheet is 5 gsm or more, the thickness of the top sheet is 0.1 mm or more, and the single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is 1.0 dtex or more. <Aspect X16> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X10 to X15, wherein the top sheet at least partially has an embossed pattern, and the width of the test strip is larger than the size and / or spacing of individual patterns in the embossed pattern. <Aspect X17> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X10 to X16, wherein the top sheet partially has an embossed pattern, and the test strip is capable of coming into contact with the vaginal discharge via a portion of the top sheet that does not have the embossed pattern. <Aspect X18> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X18 to X19, wherein the top sheet is made of a TiO ２The absorbent article of any one of Aspects X10 to X17, wherein the test strip has a sample pad that comes into contact with vaginal discharge, and the sample pad is positioned to face the wearer's vaginal area when worn, and the fiber diameter of the fibers that make up the sample pad is the same as or smaller than the fiber diameter of the fibers that make up the top sheet. <Aspect X20> A test strip for an absorbent article that uses immunochromatography to detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, and which detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 10 mIU / mL (particularly 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL) of luteinizing hormone as a positive value.

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that can determine the period suitable for trying to conceive earlier than conventionally possible. In particular, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that can determine the period suitable for trying to conceive earlier than conventionally possible and with relatively high accuracy.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention can provide an absorbent article and a test strip therefor that enable easier prediction of the day of ovulation than conventional methods.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a photograph showing the results of a sensitivity test of a test strip according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a photograph showing the results of a luminescence intensity test of a test strip according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows the results of an LH detection test according to the present invention. FIG. 4 shows the results of an LH detection test according to the present invention. FIG. 5-1 is a schematic plan view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment, as seen from the skin-facing side. FIG. 5-2 is a conceptual diagram showing a specific configuration of a test strip according to the present invention. FIG. 5-3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an absorbent article according to one aspect of the present invention. FIG. 5-4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an absorbent article according to one aspect of the present invention. FIG. 6-1 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-2 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-3 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-4 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-5 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-6 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 6-7 is a diagram explaining an experimental example. FIG. 7 is a plan view of the top sheet 3 side of a panty liner 1 according to a first embodiment of present invention B. Fig. 8 is a plan view of the backsheet 5 side of the panty liner 1 according to the first embodiment of present invention B. Fig. 9 is an end view of present invention B taken along III-III in Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a plan view of the topsheet 3 side of the test strip 21 of present invention B. Fig. 11 is an end view of present invention B taken along V-V in Fig. 4. Fig. 12 is a view for explaining an experimental example.

[0014] The details of the present invention are described below. Note that the following description can also be referred to as appropriate for more detailed specific embodiments of the above-mentioned embodiments X1 to X20.

[0015] <Aspect 1> An absorbent article having a test strip that uses an immunochromatographic method to detect luteinizing hormone (LH) from vaginal discharge, the test strip being configured to estimate that a wearer of the absorbent article is in a period (a period of trying to conceive) spanning from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation itself.

[0016] As described above, conventional methods for predicting the day of ovulation may not be able to properly carry out pregnancy efforts.

[0017] Specifically, for example, the LH surge in urine peaks locally during the two days including the ovulation day. Using the LH level in urine, it is possible to identify the two days including the ovulation day. However, even if a user knows the two days including the ovulation day through a urine LH test, the ovulation day is so close that it is impossible to plan for pregnancy, and even if the ovulation day is known, pregnancy attempts may not be successful.

[0018] In addition, to make it easier to plan pregnancy efforts, it is possible to predict the date of ovulation based on the menstrual cycle. However, predictions of the date of ovulation based on the menstrual cycle have low accuracy in identifying the date of ovulation, and have not been successful in pregnancy efforts. Generally, it is said that menstruation begins around 14 days after ovulation, but this can vary depending on changes in physical condition, and it only provides a rough indication of the date of ovulation.

[0019] In contrast, the absorbent article according to the above-mentioned Aspect 1 has a test strip that uses immunochromatography to detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, and this test strip is configured to estimate whether the wearer of the absorbent article is in a pregnancy-trying period extending from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation. More specifically, the absorbent article according to the above-mentioned Aspect 1 detects luteinizing hormone (LH) in vaginal discharge excreted during the pregnancy-trying period extending from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation, for example, by coloration, and thereby can determine with a relatively high degree of accuracy whether the wearer is in a pregnancy-trying period extending from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation.

[0020] The invention of Aspect 1 is based on the new finding that by focusing on LH in vaginal discharge, it is possible to predict the expected date of ovulation earlier than previously possible. That is, the present inventors have found that by detecting LH in vaginal discharge, it is possible to determine with a relatively high probability that a wearer of an absorbent article is in the period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation (a period suitable for trying to get pregnant).

[0021] According to this aspect 1, compared to when the LH surge in urine is used as an indicator, the ovulation date can be determined relatively early, increasing the likelihood of securing more opportunities for pregnancy attempts and enabling pregnancy attempts to be planned. Also, compared to conventional methods where the date of ovulation could be determined on or the day before, the burden of having to plan pregnancy attempts on the day of ovulation, the day before, or the day before that can be reduced, and / or failure to attempt pregnancy attempts due to an inability to plan in advance can be prevented, resulting in reduced mental burden and increased ability to carry out pregnancy attempts.

[0022] Furthermore, the absorbent article according to aspect 1 has a test strip that uses immunochromatography to detect luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, and therefore can grasp the fertility period with relatively high accuracy compared to conventional techniques such as those that use the menstrual cycle as an indicator.

[0023] Furthermore, absorbent articles that absorb vaginal discharge are commonly used articles, and therefore, according to the absorbent article according to aspect 1 of the present invention, a user can perform the test by wearing the absorbent article in the same manner as an absorbent article that is normally worn.

[0024] Furthermore, since the vaginal discharge test results are waited for while wearing the device, there is no need to wait for the test results as with urine test devices, which reduces the mental and time burden of the test.

[0025] The pregnancy attempt period to which the test strip of embodiment 1 can respond may be more limited, for example, a pregnancy attempt period spanning from 5 days before ovulation to the day before ovulation, a pregnancy attempt period spanning from 5 days before ovulation to 2 days before ovulation, a pregnancy attempt period spanning from 5 days before ovulation to 3 days before ovulation, or even a pregnancy attempt period spanning from 5 days before ovulation to 4 days before ovulation.

[0026] When detecting LH in vaginal discharge, it is not necessarily possible to detect only the specific pregnancy-trying period. However, when detecting LH in vaginal discharge, it is possible to predict the day of ovulation at a relatively earlier stage than before, and therefore it is possible to determine with a higher probability than before that the wearer is in the pregnancy-trying period.

[0027] <Aspects 2 and 3> An absorbent article having a test strip using immunochromatography for detecting luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, wherein the test strip detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 10 mIU / mL of luteinizing hormone as a positive value.

[0028] As mentioned above, conventional ovulation prediction methods generally use urine as a detection target. In contrast, the present inventors have focused on vaginal discharge as a detection target for use in ovulation prediction. Little knowledge has been gained about luteinizing hormone (LH) in vaginal discharge, but the present absorbent article, which includes a test strip that detects 0.5 mIU / mL to 10 mIU / mL of luteinizing hormone as a positive result, can reliably detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge.

[0029] Furthermore, unlike conventional urinary luteinizing hormone (LH) testing methods, the present absorbent article reduces the burden on users by eliminating the need for conscious sampling, while still allowing for reliable prediction of the day of ovulation.

[0030] Furthermore, unlike conventional urinary luteinizing hormone (LH) test kits, the absorbent article of the present invention is an item for everyday use, making it extremely easy to predict the day of ovulation and also providing the effect of relatively reducing psychological resistance.

[0031] Furthermore, while conventional immunochromatography requires procedures such as applying urine to a test strip for detection, and can take a relatively long time (e.g., 10 minutes), the present absorbent article allows the detection reaction to occur as vaginal discharge occurs simply by wearing the absorbent article, making it easier to predict the day of ovulation. For example, with the present absorbent article, instead of waiting 10 minutes to check the test results, the detection results can be checked 10 minutes after wearing the absorbent article, in time for going to the toilet, which is convenient.

[0032] Furthermore, unlike conventional methods using urine, the absorbent article of the present invention has the advantage that detection can be performed without having to worry about soiling the hands.

[0033] As described above, according to the invention of the second aspect of the present application, it is possible to provide an absorbent article that allows for easier prediction of the ovulation date than conventional methods.

[0034] Although the LH concentration in urine can fluctuate significantly depending on factors such as water intake, the LH concentration in vaginal discharge may be relatively stable. Therefore, detecting vaginal discharge may provide benefits that cannot be obtained by detecting urine.

[0035] The detailed configuration of the absorbent article according to the above aspect 1, i.e., the absorbent article having a test strip configured to estimate that the wearer of the absorbent article is in the period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation, is not particularly limited, but can be realized, for example, by using the test strip according to the above aspect 2.

[0036] Without intending to be limited by theory, conventional urine test strips detect relatively large amounts of luteinizing hormone (LH), and therefore the detection sensitivity is set relatively low accordingly. In contrast, the invention according to the above-mentioned aspect 2 of the present invention detects the relatively small amount of luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, and therefore the detection sensitivity is set relatively higher than that of conventional urine test strips. Therefore, the absorbent article according to the above-mentioned aspect 2 of the present invention can detect relatively early increases in luteinizing hormone that were previously undetectable, and as a result, it is believed that it is possible to identify the relatively early period before ovulation.

[0037] The test strip according to the above-mentioned aspect 2 preferably detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 5 mIU / mL, more preferably 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL (aspect 3 of the present invention), and particularly preferably 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.0 mIU / mL of luteinizing hormone as a positive value.

[0038] More preferably, the lower limit of luteinizing hormone concentration that the test strip detects as positive is 0.1 mIU / mL, 0.4 mIU / mL, or even 0.5 mIU / mL.

[0039] The test strip according to the above-mentioned aspect 2 can detect a positive result by coloring when the luteinizing hormone is within the above-mentioned concentration range or the preferable concentration range, for example.

[0040] In the test strip according to the second aspect, for example, when the luteinizing hormone is in the above-mentioned concentration range or the preferred concentration range, coloring can be performed to a degree lower than the maximum coloring degree. The degree of coloring can be confirmed, for example, by visual inspection.

[0041] A test strip capable of detecting the above concentration range or a preferred concentration range as a positive result can be prepared, for example, by adjusting the sensitivity (e.g., colorant) of a substance (e.g., an antibody) that reacts with luteinizing hormone, and in particular, by adjusting the size of the colorant attached to the antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone.

[0042] In particular, the test strip positively detects luteinizing hormone between 0.05 mIU / mL and 1.0 mIU / mL, more preferably between 0.05 mIU / mL and 0.5 mIU / mL, and even more preferably between 0.05 mIU / mL and 0.2 mIU / mL.

[0043] The detectable concentration of the test strip can be determined using a casein blocking buffer solution of LH as a standard solution.

[0044] A casein blocking buffer solution of LH can be prepared, for example, by the following method: (a) Dissolve casein blocking agent (1.0% casein, 100 mM borate, pH 8.5) in purified water to prepare a blocking buffer, and (b) Dilute an LH solution of known concentration with the blocking buffer to prepare a standard LH solution.

[0045] A casein blocking agent can be prepared, for example, as follows: (1.0% Casein, 100 mM Borate, pH 8.5) (a) Add 800 g of distilled water to a 1000 ml beaker. (b) Add 2.0 ml of 20% NaOH. (c) Stir for 10 minutes. (d) Slowly add 10.0 g of casein powder. (e) Stir for 3 hours. (f) Add 6.18 g of boric acid (= 100 mM). (g) Stir for 10 minutes. (h) Add 2.5 ml of 20% NaOH. (i) Dilute to 1000 ml with distilled water. (j) Stir for 10 minutes. (k) Measure the pH. (l) Filter using a filter unit (pore size 0.45 μm). (m) Heat treat at 30°C for 24 hours. (n) Aliquot into 15 ml or 50 ml containers for storage. (o) Store at -80°C.

[0046] According to prior literature, the natural LH surge concentration in urine is 20 to 100 mIU / mL (Bioeng. Transl. Med., 2017, 2(3):238-246), and a conventional luteinizing hormone kit using a urine specimen has a detection sensitivity range of 20 mIU / mL to 100 mIU / mL as the luteinizing hormone concentration in urine (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Division, Notification No. 0222-1, February 22, 2016).

[0047] Aspect 4: The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the test strip has a width of 10 mm or less.

[0048] The width of the test strip is preferably 1 mm to 6 mm, more preferably 1 mm to 3 mm. From the viewpoints of visibility for the user and ease of processing, the width of the test strip is preferably 1 mm or more, more preferably 2 mm or more.

[0049] In the absorbent article according to aspect 4, the width of the test strip is reduced to 10 mm or less, particularly 3 mm or less, so the amount of liquid that needs to be retained for detection is relatively reduced. Therefore, according to the invention according to aspect 4, even when the target of detection is vaginal discharge that is small in volume, highly viscous, and has a low amount of LH, LH can be detected satisfactorily.

[0050] Furthermore, if the width of the test strip is 10 mm or less, the risk of damage to the labia during use of the absorbent article can be avoided.

[0051] According to the fourth aspect, the width of the test strip is reduced, which has the additional effect of reducing the discomfort felt when wearing the absorbent article.

[0052] Aspect 5 The absorbent article of any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the test strip comprises: a second member containing a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge; and a third member having an indicator portion containing a capture antibody, wherein the capture antibody is capable of capturing a complex formed by the binding of the labeled antibody with the luteinizing hormone, wherein the luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to migrate from the second member to the indicator portion of the third member, and wherein the indicator portion of the third member changes color when the capture antibody captures the complex.

[0053] According to the absorbent article of Aspect 5, luteinizing hormone can be detected simply and quickly via a color reaction.

[0054] The manner in which vaginal discharge (or vaginal discharge components) are introduced into the test strip is not particularly limited, but for example, vaginal discharge can be introduced by contacting a part of the test strip with the vaginal discharge.

[0055] In one aspect of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the test strip has a first member that contacts vaginal discharge, and in this case, the test strip may be configured so that luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge migrates from the first member to the indicator portion of the third member via the second member.

[0056] In particular, the absorbent article according to the present disclosure also includes the following aspects: The absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the test strip comprises: a first member that comes into contact with vaginal discharge; a second member that contains a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge; and a third member that has an indicator that contains a capture antibody, wherein the capture antibody is capable of capturing a complex formed by the binding of the labeled antibody with the luteinizing hormone, and wherein the luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to migrate from the first member via the second member to the indicator of the third member, and wherein the indicator of the third member changes color when the capture antibody captures the complex.

[0057] The measurement principle of the test strip will be explained using a specific example. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the labeled antibody is a colorant-labeled anti-human luteinizing hormone mouse monoclonal antibody, and the capture antibody is an anti-human luteinizing hormone mouse monoclonal antibody. When human luteinizing hormone (hLH) is present in a sample that has contacted the first member, the labeled antibody reacts with hLH in the second member to form a complex based on an antigen-antibody reaction. This complex migrates to the indicator section of the third member and is captured by the capture antibody immobilized there, resulting in the indicator section developing a color based on the colorant (dye).

[0058] A second display section (control section) can be provided downstream of the display section in the direction of antigen migration. A second capture antibody (e.g., a rabbit anti-mouse immunoglobulin polyclonal antibody) different from the above-mentioned capture antibody is immobilized on this control section. This second capture antibody can recognize the labeled antibody. The labeled antibody that does not form a complex with the antigen passes through the display section without being captured, and is captured by the control section. As a result, the control section develops a color based on the coloring agent.

[0059] In this embodiment, in the case of a positive result, both the indicator section and the control section are colored, and in the case of a negative result, only the control section is colored.

[0060] The configuration of the test strip will be described in detail below.

[0061] <Aspect 5b> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the first member, the second member, and the third member of the test strip are stacked in this order, at least partially overlapping one another, and the total thickness of the first member, the second member, and the third member in the stacking direction is 1.5 mm or less.

[0062] As described above, vaginal discharge has a relatively high viscosity and low fluidity. Furthermore, the amount of vaginal discharge is small compared to urine, etc. Therefore, it has not always been easy to detect LH in vaginal discharge using conventional methods, particularly in immunochromatographic detection.

[0063] Furthermore, the present inventors have found that the amount of LH in vaginal discharge is smaller than that in urine. It is not easy to detect LH in vaginal discharge using conventional test strips.

[0064] In contrast, in the absorbent article according to the above aspect 5b, the thickness of the components constituting the test strip is reduced, so the amount of liquid that needs to be retained in the test strip for detection is relatively reduced. Therefore, according to the absorbent article according to the above aspect 4, even when the target of detection is vaginal discharge that is small in volume, highly viscous, and has a small amount of LH, it is possible to perform good LH detection.

[0065] The preferred range of the thickness of each member (membrane thickness) is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 160 to 230 μm, more preferably 180 to 220 μm.

[0066] <Aspect 5c> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the first member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of 0.5 to 5 μm (or a fineness of 0.01 to 0.1 dtex), and the second member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of 10 to 40 μm (or a fineness of 2 to 6 dtex).

[0067] As described above, vaginal discharge has a relatively high viscosity and low fluidity. Therefore, it has sometimes been difficult to detect LH in vaginal discharge, particularly in detection using immunochromatography. Furthermore, the present inventors have discovered that the amount of LH in vaginal discharge is smaller than that in urine. In contrast, the test strip according to the above-mentioned aspect 5c has an optimized fiber diameter (or fineness) of the components constituting the test strip, so that even a small amount of highly viscous vaginal discharge can be efficiently transported to the detection site (display unit) and successfully detected.

[0068] The first member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of preferably 1 to 4 μm, more preferably 1.5 to 3 μm.

[0069] The first member is made of fibers having a fineness preferably between 0.02 and 0.08 dtex, more preferably between 0.03 and 0.06 dtex.

[0070] The second member is made of fibers having a fiber diameter of preferably 15 to 30 μm, more preferably 18 to 25 μm.

[0071] The second component is made of fibers having a fineness of preferably 2.5 to 5 dtex, more preferably 3 to 5 dtex.

[0072] <Aspect 5d> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, a fiber diameter R1 of the fibers constituting the first member and a fiber diameter R2 of the fibers constituting the second member satisfy the relationship 5≦(R2 / R1)≦20.

[0073] According to this aspect, the correspondence between the fiber diameters of the first and second members that make up the test strip is optimized, and as a result, even small amounts of highly viscous vaginal discharge can be efficiently transported to the detection site (display unit), allowing for good detection.

[0074] In a more preferred embodiment, the following conditions are satisfied: 6≦(R2 / R1)≦18, 7≦(R2 / R1)≦16, 8≦(R2 / R1)≦14, and 9≦(R2 / R1)≦12.

[0075] <Aspect 5e> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, a fineness D1 of the fibers constituting the first member and a fineness D2 of the fibers constituting the second member satisfy the relationship 50≦(D2 / D1)≦200.

[0076] According to this aspect, the correspondence between the finenesses of the first and second members that make up the test strip is optimized, and as a result, even small amounts of highly viscous vaginal discharge can be efficiently moved to the detection site (display unit), allowing for good detection.

[0077] In a more preferred embodiment, the following conditions are satisfied: 60≦(D2 / D1)≦190, 70≦(D2 / D1)≦180, 80≦(D2 / D1)≦170, and 90≦(D2 / D1)≦160.

[0078] <Aspect 5f> One embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure satisfies at least one of the following: (a) the second member has a basis weight of 100 gsm or more, (b) the total thickness of the first member, the second member, and the third member is 1.5 mm or less, and the thickness of the second member accounts for 30% or more of this total thickness, and (c) the second member has a basis weight of 0.05 to 0.80 g / m ３ It has a density of

[0079] According to this embodiment, the basis weight, thickness, and / or density of the second component (e.g., the conjugate pad) is optimized, thereby improving the diffusibility of the labeled antibody. Therefore, even vaginal discharge with a relatively high viscosity can be detected satisfactorily. Furthermore, within this range (particularly within the range (c)), good liquid migration and color development are ensured.

[0080] Aspect 6: The absorbent article according to aspect 5, wherein the labeled antibody comprises a colorant having a particle size of 250 nm to 500 nm (preferably 280 to 450 nm, and more preferably 300 nm to 400 nm).

[0081] As described above, the present inventors have found that the amount of LH in vaginal discharge is smaller than that in urine. In this case, it is not easy to detect LH in vaginal discharge using conventional test strips (especially those designed for urinary LH). In contrast, the test strip according to Aspect 6 uses a labeled antibody that binds to LH and contains a colorant with a relatively large particle size, improving the visibility of detection. Therefore, even when vaginal discharge containing a small amount of LH is used as the detection target, LH can be detected satisfactorily.

[0082] Aspect 7 An absorbent article according to Aspect 5 or 6, wherein the test strip has a moving portion connecting the second member and the display portion, and has a first direction which is a direction in which vaginal discharge components move from the moving portion to the display portion, a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a thickness direction perpendicular to the first and second directions; the test strip has five equal regions obtained by dividing the test strip in the second direction, including a center region located in the center in the second direction and side regions located at both ends in the second direction; the moving portion and the display portion are disposed in at least the center region and the side regions; and the maximum thickness of the center region is thicker than the maximum thickness of the side regions and / or the average thickness of the center region is thicker than the average thickness of the side regions.

[0083] In the test strip of the absorbent article of Aspect 7, the center region has a thicker average thickness than the side regions, ensuring a larger volume of space for the movement of excrement components. Therefore, vaginal discharge components are more likely to move in the first direction in the center region, and a color reaction is more likely to occur in the display area in the center region. By showing a color reaction in the center of the test strip in the second direction, the wearer can easily visually recognize the color reaction, improving the visibility of the test results. In particular, the first and second directions can be defined within the plane of the test strip, in which case the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction within the plane of the test strip. The five equal regions, particularly the center region and the side regions, may extend along the first direction.

[0084] Aspect 8 The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 5 to 7, wherein the display portion of the test strip is visible from the skin side of the absorbent article, the test strip comprises: a migration-inhibiting upper layer that inhibits the wearer's excrement from migrating to the display portion of the test strip; and a migration-inhibiting lower layer that inhibits the wearer's excrement from migrating to the display portion, and the migration-inhibiting upper layer and the migration-inhibiting lower layer abut on the outside of the test strip in the width direction of the test strip.

[0085] In the absorbent article according to Aspect 8, the test strip includes a migration-inhibiting upper layer and a migration-inhibiting lower layer, and these layers abut the outer sides of the test strip in the width direction of the test strip, thereby preventing unintended intrusion of excrement (vaginal discharge) from the width direction and / or thickness direction of the test strip, and in particular preventing excrement (particularly vaginal discharge) from migrating directly to the display section without passing through the sample pad and conjugate pad of the test strip. As a result, this absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal discharge in a state where they are less susceptible to the influence of vaginal discharge, etc.

[0086] The phrase "the upper and lower migration-inhibiting layers abut on the outside of the test strip in the width direction of the test strip" means, more specifically, that the widthwise ends of the upper and lower migration-inhibiting layers extend beyond the widthwise ends of the test strip and abut each other. That is, for example, when viewed from the skin side, the upper and lower migration-inhibiting layers have a width greater than the test strip and abut each other at their widthwise ends.

[0087] For example, when the test strip is disposed between the top sheet and the absorbent body, the "transfer-suppressing lower layer" can prevent excrement absorbed by the absorbent body from migrating to the indicator.

[0088] In the absorbent article according to Aspect 8, the test strip is visible from the skin side of the absorbent article, so the position of the test strip on the absorbent article can be ascertained when worn, and the test strip can be positioned in an appropriate position. Furthermore, because the test strip is visible from the skin side, the test result can be ascertained by visually viewing the absorbent article from the skin side of the absorbent article, without having to peel the absorbent article off the worn article or remove the absorbent article from the worn article.

[0089] The upper and lower migration-suppressing layers may each be a sheet, for example, a sheet made of a hydrophobic material, particularly a liquid-impermeable sheet, which has lower breathability than a sheet having a fiber spacing such as a nonwoven fabric.

[0090] By sandwiching the test strip between two sheets, the upper and lower migration-inhibiting layers, the test subject can be retained and the test strip can be prevented from drying out. That is, an appropriate humidity can be maintained, and when vaginal discharge and vaginal discharge components are introduced, the vaginal discharge components can be smoothly transported, allowing for proper testing.

[0091] The "upper migration-inhibiting layer" and the "lower migration-inhibiting layer" have sealing portions that seal their outer edges. In particular, these sealing portions are formed along at least both widthwise edges of the test strip, thereby inhibiting undesired migration of bodily exudates (especially vaginal discharge) onto the test strip.

[0092] The "migration-inhibiting upper layer" and the "migration-inhibiting lower layer" are preferably configured to inhibit the wearer's exudates from migrating not only to the display portion of the test strip, but also to the moving portion of the test strip (e.g., 66A in FIG. 1). For example, the "migration-inhibiting upper layer" and the "migration-inhibiting lower layer" may be positioned so as to overlap and cover at least the display portion and moving portion of the test strip when viewed from the skin side.

[0093] <Aspect 9> The absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the absorbent article has a top sheet, and when the absorbent article is in use, the vaginal discharge reaches the test strip through the top sheet.

[0094] According to the invention of Aspect 9, the top sheet can alleviate any discomfort caused by the test strip when worn. Furthermore, even when urine is excreted, the urine spreads across the top sheet, thereby avoiding or reducing the risk of urine coming into contact with the test strip and interfering with detection.

[0095] Aspect 10 The absorbent article of Aspect 9, having a front-to-rear direction, a width direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction, and a thickness direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction and the width direction, further comprising, in the thickness direction, starting from the side closest to the skin of a wearer in use, the top sheet and an absorbent core containing an absorbent material, in this order, and the test strip is disposed between the top sheet and the absorbent core.

[0096] According to aspect 10, the test strip is positioned between the top sheet and the absorbent (absorbent core), so that the discharged vaginal discharge can be efficiently transferred to the test strip (particularly the first component of the test strip) as it transfers to the absorbent article.

[0097] Aspect 11 The absorbent article of Aspect 9 or 10, wherein the test strip comprises: a second member containing a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge; and a third member having an indicator portion containing a capture antibody; the capture antibody is capable of capturing a complex formed by binding between the labeled antibody and luteinizing hormone; the luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to migrate from the second member to the indicator portion of the third member, and the indicator portion of the third member is configured to change color when the capture antibody captures the complex; a skin-side sheet having a colored region is positioned closer to the skin than the test strip; the labeled antibody in the second member of the test strip contains a colorant; and the labeled antibody in the second member is configured to be covered by the colored region of the skin-side sheet when viewed from the skin side.

[0098] According to Aspect 11, when viewed from the skin side, the colored labeled antibody in the second member (e.g., the conjugate pad) of the test strip is covered by the colored region of the skin-side sheet. This aspect makes it difficult for a user to see the colored labeled antibody when viewing the absorbent article from the skin side before use, thereby reducing the chance of a user mistaking that the test member has already reacted before using the absorbent article.

[0099] Furthermore, because the labeled antibody in the second component (particularly the reaction area) of the test strip is colored, not only the labeled antibody but also the complex stands out from the surroundings, compared to a configuration in which the labeled antibody is not colored. Therefore, during the test, areas other than the colored portion of the display area are also colored, indicating that the test is progressing. Furthermore, after the test is completed, the complex and the display area after the color reaction by the complex can be made to stand out. By making the display area after the color reaction stand out, the user can accurately and easily grasp the test results, reducing user misinterpretation.

[0100] The manner in which vaginal discharge (or vaginal discharge components) are introduced into the test strip is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, by contacting a portion of the test strip with the vaginal discharge. In one embodiment, the test strip has a first member that contacts the vaginal discharge. In this case, the test strip can be configured so that luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge migrates from the first member, through the second member, to the indicator portion of the third member.

[0101] For more detailed specific aspects of the test strip according to Aspect 11, other descriptions of the test strip (for example, the descriptions of Aspect 5 and FIG. 5-1) can be referenced.

[0102] Figure 5-4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an absorbent article according to one embodiment of the present invention. The test strip has a sample pad, a conjugate pad, and a membrane (including a display unit). When the absorbent article is viewed from the skin side, the colored region carried on the first skin-side sheet covers the conjugate pad (second component). In the illustrated embodiment, the pad located downstream of the membrane having the display unit is also covered by the colored region.

[0103] Aspect 12 The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 9 to 11, wherein the detection is performed by bringing at least a portion of the top sheet into direct contact with the vagina.

[0104] According to the invention of aspect 12, vaginal discharge adhering to the vaginal area can be collected in an absorbent article, so that even a relatively small amount of vaginal discharge can be detected efficiently.

[0105] <Aspect 12b> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the basis weight of the top sheet is 20 gsm or less.

[0106] According to this aspect of the invention, the basis weight of the top sheet is reduced, so vaginal discharge, which is a highly viscous liquid substance, can pass through the top sheet relatively easily and come into contact with the test strip, allowing for good detection even when the amount of vaginal discharge is relatively small.

[0107] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the basis weight of the top sheet is relatively low, so that the visibility of the test strip through the top sheet is ensured.

[0108] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the basis weight of the top sheet is relatively low, making the top sheet relatively soft. This improves adhesion to the wearer's body, so that even if vaginal discharge remains on the wearer's body, the discharge can be transferred to the top sheet by the wearer's movements, etc. Therefore, even if the amount of discharged vaginal discharge is relatively small, the test strip can be brought into contact with the top sheet, allowing for good detection.

[0109] <Aspect 12c> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the top sheet has a thickness of 1 mm or less.

[0110] According to this embodiment, the thickness of the top sheet is reduced, so that vaginal discharge, which is a highly viscous liquid substance, can pass through the top sheet relatively easily and reach the test strip, thereby enabling good detection even when the amount of vaginal discharge is relatively small.

[0111] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the thickness of the top sheet is relatively reduced, so that the visibility of the test strip through the top sheet is ensured.

[0112] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the thickness of the top sheet is relatively reduced, making the top sheet relatively soft. This improves the adhesion to the wearer's body, so that even if vaginal discharge remains on the wearer's body, the discharge can be transferred to the top sheet by the wearer's movements, etc. Therefore, even if the sample amount of vaginal discharge is relatively small, detection can be performed satisfactorily.

[0113] <Aspect 12d> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is 8.0 dtex or less.

[0114] According to this aspect of the invention, the fiber diameter of the top sheet located between the wearer and the test strip is reduced, resulting in a relatively large gap in the top sheet. Therefore, vaginal discharge, which is a highly viscous liquid substance, can pass through the top sheet relatively easily to reach the test strip. Therefore, detection can be performed satisfactorily even when the amount of vaginal discharge is relatively small. Furthermore, according to this aspect, the fiber diameter of the top sheet is relatively reduced, making the top sheet relatively soft. Therefore, adhesion to the wearer's body is improved, so that even if vaginal discharge remains on the wearer's body, the vaginal discharge can be transferred to the top sheet by the wearer's movement, etc. Therefore, detection can be performed satisfactorily even when the sample amount of vaginal discharge is relatively small.

[0115] The single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is more preferably 5.0 dtex or less, and even more preferably 3.0 dtex. If the single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is 3.0 dtex or less, a particularly good feel against the skin can be obtained.

[0116] <Aspect 12e> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the top sheet has a basis weight of 5 gsm or more, the top sheet has a thickness of 0.1 mm or more, and the single fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet is 1.0 dtex or more.

[0117] When vaginal discharge is brought into contact with the test strip through a top sheet, the permeability of the top sheet needs to be improved in order to allow the relatively highly viscous vaginal discharge to come into good contact with the test strip.

[0118] Furthermore, when vaginal discharge is brought into contact with a test strip via a top sheet, it is necessary to ensure not only the visibility of the test strip but also the fit (feel) of the top sheet.

[0119] Furthermore, in order to efficiently collect vaginal discharge, which is discharged in relatively small amounts, and bring it into contact with the test strip, it is important to ensure that the top sheet is soft enough to transfer vaginal discharge that has adhered to the wearer's body due to movement, etc., to the top sheet (conformability).

[0120] In contrast, according to the invention of the above aspect 12e, it is possible to obtain an absorbent article that satisfies all of the requirements (i.e., "liquid permeability," "visibility," "wearability," and "conformability") that are important for good detection of LH from vaginal discharge at a high level.

[0121] <Aspect 12f> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the top sheet has an embossed pattern at least partially, and the width of the test strip is larger than the size and / or spacing of individual patterns of the embossed pattern.

[0122] When the top sheet is embossed, the fibers that make up the top sheet become thicker due to the embossing process, resulting in a decrease in vaginal discharge permeability and / or visibility through the top sheet in the areas of the embossed pattern.

[0123] In contrast, according to the invention of aspect 12f, the width of the test strip is relatively large, which makes it possible to avoid the reduction in transparency and / or visibility caused by the embossed pattern.

[0124] <Aspect 12g> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the top sheet has a partial embossed pattern, and the test strip can come into contact with the vaginal discharge via a portion of the top sheet that does not have the embossed pattern.

[0125] When the top sheet is embossed, the fibers that make up the top sheet become thicker due to the embossing process, resulting in a decrease in vaginal discharge permeability and / or visibility through the top sheet in the areas of the embossed pattern.

[0126] In contrast, according to the invention of aspect 12g, the width of the test strip is relatively large, so that the reduction in transparency and / or visibility caused by the embossed pattern can be avoided.

[0127] <Aspect 12h> In one embodiment of the absorbent article according to the present disclosure, the top sheet is ２ Does not include.

[0128] According to this aspect of the invention, the visibility of the top sheet is further improved, and therefore the visibility of the test strip through the top sheet can be further improved.

[0129] Aspect 13: The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 9 to 12, wherein the test strip has a sample pad as a first component that comes into contact with vaginal discharge, the sample pad being positioned to face the wearer's vaginal area when worn, and the fiber diameter of the fibers that make up the sample pad is the same as or smaller than the fiber diameter of the fibers that make up the top sheet.

[0130] According to the invention described in Aspect 13, solid matter that could not be filtered out by the top sheet can be filtered out by the sample pad, making it easier to detect LH in vaginal discharge.

[0131] Aspect 14 The absorbent article of any one of Aspects 9 to 13, wherein the test strip has a sample pad as a first component that comes into contact with vaginal discharge, and the sample pad is positioned to face the wearer's vaginal area when worn; the top sheet and the sample pad are made of sheets having fibers; and the average inter-fiber distance of the top sheet is longer than the average inter-fiber distance of the sample pad.

[0132] According to this aspect, excrement (especially vaginal discharge) in the top sheet is more likely to transfer to the first member (especially the sample pad), which has a relatively narrow fiber-to-fiber distance, making even small amounts of vaginal discharge easier to detect via the test strip.

[0133] <Aspect 15> A test strip for an absorbent article that uses an immunochromatographic method to detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, the test strip being configured to estimate that a wearer of the absorbent article is in a period ranging from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation.

[0134] As described above with respect to Aspect 1, the test strip according to Aspect 15 allows the date of ovulation to be determined relatively early compared to, for example, when the LH surge in urine is used as an indicator, thereby increasing the likelihood of securing more opportunities for pregnancy attempts and enabling more planned pregnancy attempts. Furthermore, compared to conventional methods that allow the date of ovulation to be determined on or the day before, the burden of having to plan pregnancy attempts on the day of ovulation, the day before, or the day before that can be reduced, and / or the inability to plan in advance to prevent pregnancy attempts from being canceled can be reduced, resulting in an increased ability to carry out pregnancy attempts while reducing mental burden.

[0135] Furthermore, the test strip according to aspect 15 uses immunochromatography to detect luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, and therefore can determine the fertility period with higher accuracy than conventional techniques that use the menstrual cycle as an indicator.

[0136] <Aspect 16> A test strip for an absorbent article, using an immunochromatographic method for detecting luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, which detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL of luteinizing hormone as a positive result.

[0137] The test strip, which detects 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL of luteinizing hormone as a positive result, can reliably detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge.

[0138] Furthermore, by using this test strip in an absorbent article, unlike conventional urinary luteinizing hormone (LH) testing methods, the burden on the user is reduced in that there is no need to consciously collect the test strip, and the ovulation date can be predicted with high reliability.

[0139] Furthermore, by using this test strip in an absorbent article, it is possible to predict the day of ovulation very easily, unlike conventional urinary luteinizing hormone (LH) test kits, and it also has the effect of relatively reducing psychological resistance.

[0140] Furthermore, while immunochromatography can require a relatively long time (e.g., 10 minutes) for detection, by using this test strip in an absorbent article, the detection reaction occurs as vaginal discharge occurs simply by wearing the absorbent article, making it easier to predict the day of ovulation.

[0141] Furthermore, unlike conventional methods using urine, the test strip can be used on an absorbent article, which has the advantage that detection can be performed without worrying about soiling the hands.

[0142] As described above, according to the sixteenth aspect, a test strip can be provided that enables prediction of the day of ovulation more easily than conventional methods.

[0143] For details of the test strips according to Aspects 15 and 16, please refer to the descriptions of the absorbent articles according to the other aspects above, particularly Aspects 1 to 14 (particularly the descriptions of the test strips).

[0144] The above aspects of the present disclosure can be used in combination or alone. For example, at least one of the above aspects 5b to 5f and the above aspects 12b to 12h can be combined with at least one of the above aspects 1 to 16.

[0145] <General Configuration of Absorbent Article> An absorbent article 1 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The absorbent article may be an absorbent article such as a panty liner. In the following embodiment, a panty liner will be described as an example of an absorbent article.

[0146] The absorbent article 1 in FIG. 5-1 may have a front-to-rear direction L, a width direction W, and a thickness direction T. The front-to-rear direction L is the direction extending from the front side (belly side) to the rear side (dorsal side) of the user, or the direction extending from the rear side to the front side of the user. The width direction W is a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction L. The thickness direction T is the direction extending from the skin-facing side of the user to the non-skin-facing side, or the direction extending from the non-skin-facing side of the user to the skin-facing side. The thickness direction T is also a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction L and the width direction W. The skin-facing side corresponds to the side that faces the user's skin when in use. The non-skin-facing side corresponds to the side opposite the skin-facing side, i.e., the side that faces away from the user's skin when in use.

[0147] As shown in FIG. 5-1 , the absorbent article 1 may have a front region S1, a rear region S2, and a central region S3. The front region S1 is located forward of the central region S3, and the rear region S2 is located rearward of the central region S3. The central region S3 includes a region that contacts the user's excretory opening (e.g., vaginal opening). The front region obtained by dividing the absorbent article 1 into thirds in the front-to-back direction L may be the front region S1, the rear region S2, and the central region S3 may be the central region between the front region S1 and the rear region S2. If the absorbent article 1 has wings, the central region S3 may be the region from the front edge of the base of the wings to the rear edge of the base of the wings. The wings are portions that are folded back to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent article 1 when the absorbent article 1 is in use.

[0148] The absorbent article 1 may include an absorbent core (absorbent body) 20, a top sheet 30 (particularly a top sheet 31), a non-skin-side sheet, an adhesive portion, and a test strip (test member) 60. The absorbent core 20 includes an absorbent material that absorbs liquid. The absorbent material may be composed of, for example, at least one of pulp and a superabsorbent polymer.

[0149] The top sheet 30 is disposed on the skin-facing side T1 of the absorbent body 20. The top sheet 30 may be a top sheet 31 disposed on the skin-facing side of the test strip 60. The top sheet 31 faces the user's skin. The top sheet 31 may be composed of multiple sheets. In an embodiment, the top sheet 30 is composed of the top sheet 31. The top sheet 31 (top sheet 30) may be composed of, for example, a spunlace nonwoven fabric, an air-through nonwoven fabric, a spunbond nonwoven fabric, an SMS nonwoven fabric, or the like.

[0150] The visible light transmittance of the topsheet 31 may be 60% or more. The visible light transmittance of the topsheet 31 may be preferably 70% or more, and more preferably 80% or more. The basis weight of the topsheet 31 may be 90 gsm or less, 30 gsm or less, or 17 gsm or less. The thickness of the topsheet 31 may be 5 mm or less.

[0151] The non-skin-side sheet 40 is disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent core 20. The non-skin-side sheet 40 may have a back sheet 41 facing the worn article. The non-skin-side sheet 40 may be made of, for example, a liquid-impermeable film. Alternatively, the non-skin-side sheet 40 may be a liquid-impermeable and breathable sheet, such as a perforated plastic film.

[0152] The adhesive portion is provided on the non-skin surface of the non-skin side sheet 40. The adhesive portion may be provided in an area that overlaps with the absorbent core 20 in the thickness direction T, or in an area that does not overlap with the absorbent core 20 in the thickness direction T. The adhesive portion may be provided on the wing. The absorbent article 1 is fixed to a wearing article via the adhesive portion.

[0153] The configuration of the test strip and the like will be explained in more detail using Figure 5-1. The absorbent article 1 in Figure 5-1 may have an absorbent core 20, a top sheet 30, a back sheet, an adhesive portion, and a test strip (test member) 60. The absorbent core 20 includes an absorbent material that absorbs liquid. The absorbent material may be composed of, for example, at least one of pulp and a superabsorbent polymer.

[0154] The test strip (testing member) 60 in FIG. 5-1 has display sections (62A and 62B) that can change color based on the amount of excrement (vaginal discharge). The test strip 60 has a contact section (first member, e.g., a sample pad) 64 that comes into contact with the vaginal discharge. The test strip 60 may have a migration section through which components contained in vaginal discharge (hereinafter, vaginal discharge components) migrate. In the migration section, the vaginal discharge components may migrate by capillary action. The migration section may have a display migration section 66A through which the vaginal discharge components migrate from the contact section 64 to the display sections (62A and 62B), and a terminal migration section 66B through which the vaginal discharge components migrate in a direction away from the display sections (62A and 62B). The terminal migration section is the section through which vaginal discharge components, etc., that have passed through the display sections (62A and 62B) migrate.

[0155] The contact portion (first member) 64 that comes into contact with the vaginal discharge may be composed of, for example, a pad (which may also be referred to as a sample pad or specimen pad). The vaginal discharge components that come into contact with the contact portion 64 migrate, for example, through the pad and transfer to a second member (e.g., a conjugate pad). The conjugate pad contains a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge. Although not shown in FIG. 5-1 , the conjugate pad (second member) may be arranged, for example, so as to overlap the sample pad (first member) in the thickness direction. The vaginal discharge components, complexes formed by an antigen-antibody reaction with luteinizing hormone contained in the vaginal discharge components, and labeled antibodies may migrate through the migration portion 66A by capillary action. The portion through which these substances migrate may be composed of, for example, a membrane. The indicator portion has a region 62A containing a capture antibody that captures (binds to) the formed complex. This region changes color when the complex is captured by the capture antibody. This region 62A of the indicator portion may be referred to as a test line.

[0156] The indicator may have a region 62B containing a capture antibody separate from the region 62A containing the capture antibody that captures the complex. The capture antibody in region 62B may capture a complex separate from the complex captured in region 62A, or may capture a labeled antibody. Region 62B changes color upon capture of the complex or the labeled antibody. Region 62B capturing the labeled antibody may be referred to as a control line. Vaginal discharge components that pass through the indicator 62 (i.e., components not captured by the capture antibody) move through the terminal migration region 66B. The terminal migration region 66B may be composed of a membrane. Alternatively, the terminal migration region 66B may have an adsorption pad that absorbs vaginal discharge components that pass through the indicator 62. Instead of an adsorption pad, the vaginal discharge components that pass through the indicator 62 may be absorbed by the absorbent core 20. When immunochromatography is used, the indicator 62 and the contact region 64 are located at different positions. Therefore, in this case, the indicator 62 and the contact region 64 are different.

[0157] The test strip (test member) 60 may be made of any material, such as paper, nonwoven fabric, or woven fabric, as long as it has a material that can hold or contain substances such as labeled antibodies and capture antibodies.

[0158] The test strip (test member) 60 may be biased to one side in the front-to-rear direction L. As shown in FIG. 5-1 , the center CT of the test member 60 in the front-to-rear direction L may be located forward of the center CL of the absorbent article 1 in the front-to-rear direction L. Furthermore, the indicators (62A and 62B) may be biased to one side in the front-to-rear direction L. The indicators (62A and 62B) may be located forward of the center CL of the absorbent article 1, and the indicators (62A and 62B) may be located forward of the central region S3. The indicators 62 may be disposed in the front region S1. This positions the indicators (62A and 62B) away from the excretory opening, thereby preventing the color of the indicators (62A and 62B) from being obscured by vaginal discharge. In particular, when lying on one's back, vaginal discharge is less likely to diffuse to the front region S1, preventing the color from being less visible due to vaginal discharge. Furthermore, in the test member 60 using the inochromatographic method, vaginal discharge is less likely to come into direct contact with the display portions (62A and 62B), so the health condition can be displayed with high accuracy.

[0159] Furthermore, the contact portion 64 may be biased to one side in the front-to-rear direction L. The contact portion 64 may be located forward of the center CL of the absorbent article 1. The contact portion 64 may be disposed in the crotch region (not shown). Since vaginal discharge is more likely to come into contact with the contact portion 64, the indicator portion is more likely to change color, making it easier for the user to check their health condition. The contact portion 64 may be located more inward in the front-to-rear direction L than the indicator portions (62A and 62B).

[0160] In test strip 60, with respect to a center region located in the center when the test strip area is divided into five equal parts in the width direction W and two side regions located at both ends, the maximum thickness of the center region may be thicker than the maximum thickness of the side regions, and / or the average thickness of the center region may be thicker than the average thickness of the side regions.

[0161] A test strip (test member) is generally composed of multiple components each having a function, such as a moving section and a display section, and if these components are misaligned or turned up, there is a risk of the test accuracy decreasing. When an absorbent article is worn, the test member is subjected to external force due to the wearer's movements, etc., and is deformed, which may cause the components constituting the test member to be misaligned or turned up.

[0162] On the other hand, if the maximum thickness and / or average thickness of the side region is thinner than that of the center region, the edge of the inspection member is less likely to get caught, curling at the edge of the inspection member can be suppressed, and inspection accuracy can be maintained.

[0163] Furthermore, by preventing curling and twisting of the edges of the test strip, local changes in the thickness and density of each component can be prevented. Local changes in thickness and density can cause the movement of excrement components to stagnate in the affected areas, making it difficult for the color reaction to occur. By preventing local changes in the thickness and density of each component, it is possible to prevent a decrease in test accuracy.

[0164] A conceptual diagram of the test strip is shown in the attached Figure 5-2. For other configurations of the test strip, in addition to the above description, reference can be made to the description in, for example, WO2021 / 132724A1.

[0165] 5-3 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an absorbent article according to one embodiment of the present invention. A test strip (test member) is disposed between the top sheet and the absorbent core (absorbent body). In the illustrated embodiment, a second sheet is disposed between the absorbent core and the test strip (test member).

[0166] The present invention will be specifically described below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0167] <Reference Example> As can be seen from Figures 6-1 to 6-7 and Figure 12, particularly Figure 6-3, when using the test strip of the present invention, the LH surge in vaginal discharge appears in the Fertile Window at a rate of 86%, and therefore can function satisfactorily as a biomarker for predicting the day of ovulation.

[0168] In particular, Figures 6-5 to 6-7 show that the LH surge in vaginal discharge can be detected earlier than the LH surge in urine. As is clear from these results, by using the LH level in vaginal discharge as an indicator, it is possible to determine the optimal period for trying to conceive (for example, the period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation).

[0169] The horizontal axis in Figures 6-5 to 6-7 indicates the number of days from the peak of urinary LH, assuming that day 0.

[0170] <Example>

[0171] As test strips according to the present invention, "Spec 1" and "Spec 2" were prepared and their performance was examined.

[0172] (Standard Solution) The LH standard solution was a casein blocking buffer solution of LH. Specifically, "Lumipulse Presto LH LH Calibrator (250 mIU)" (Fujirebio Inc.: CODE No. 291573) was used as the positive specimen solution, and 1% casein, 100 mM borate, pH 8.5 was used as the diluent solution. The positive specimen solution was diluted with the diluent solution to an arbitrary concentration to prepare a standard solution.

[0173] (Sensitivity Test) Standard solutions containing various concentrations of LH were dropped onto the sample pads of the above-mentioned Spec 1 and Spec 2 test strips, and the color change of the display area was confirmed.

[0174] The results are shown in Figure 1 below.

[0175] As can be seen from Figure 1 below, with Spec 1, color change on the display could be confirmed when the LH concentration was 0.5 or 1.0 mIU / mL or higher.

[0176] For Spec 1, a proportional relationship was confirmed between LH concentration and color intensity at least in the concentration range of 0.5 to 1 mIU / mL.

[0177] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figure 1 below, with Spec 2, color change on the display could be confirmed when the LH concentration was 0.05 or 0.1 mIU / mL or higher.

[0178] For Spec 2, a proportional relationship between LH concentration and color intensity was confirmed at least in the concentration range of 0.05 to 1.0 mIU / mL.

[0179] <Comparison> The color intensity of the test strips of Spec 1 (Example 1) and Spec 2 (Example 2) was compared.

[0180] The results are shown in Figure 2. As can be seen from Figure 2, the test strips according to the present invention showed good color intensity over a wide range of LH concentrations. The strip of Example 2 showed better color intensity than the strip of Example 1.

[0181] <Vaginal Discharge Test> Using panty liners having the above-mentioned Spec 1 and Spec 2 test strips, a test for detecting LH in vaginal discharge from the wearer's vagina was carried out.

[0182] The test results for Spec 1 are shown in Figure 3 below.

[0183] As can be seen from Figure 3, when the Spec 1 test strip was used, LH could be detected with relatively high accuracy.

[0184] The test results for Spec 2 are shown in Figure 4 below.

[0185] As can be seen from Figure 4, LH could be detected with relatively high accuracy even when using the test strip of Spec 2. In particular, the detection accuracy of Spec 2 was higher than that of Spec 1.

[0186] <Invention B> The present disclosure also includes the following invention ("Invention B" or "Invention B").

[0187] Invention B relates to an absorbent article.

[0188] <Background Art Related to Invention B> Antigens are detected using body fluids such as urine and saliva to perform pregnancy tests, diagnoses of viral infections, diagnoses of bacterial infections, etc. For example, Patent Document (JP 5-87807 A) discloses a pregnancy test device comprising a test device main body including a urine collection portion that contacts and absorbs urine, a reagent portion that is arranged to contact the urine collection portion, a substrate portion through which urine collected in the urine collection portion moves through the reagent portion, a determination portion that determines the presence or absence of pregnancy based on the presence or absence of color change caused by the urine that has moved through the substrate portion, and a fixing member that integrally fixes the urine collection portion, reagent portion, substrate portion, and determination portion, and a wrapper that houses the test device main body, the wrapper having means that can be opened so that only the urine collection portion and the determination portion of the test device main body are sequentially exposed.

[0189] <Problem to be Solved by Invention B> Conventional pregnancy tests, including the pregnancy test device disclosed in Patent Document (JP Patent Publication No. 5-87807A), measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), an antigen contained in urine, to determine whether or not a woman is pregnant. Using urine allows for easy measurement of the amount of antigen. However, it is generally known that the concentration of components in urine decreases as the amount of water absorbed increases, and decreases with decreased water absorption or increased sweating, and the concentration of antigens in urine is also prone to change. Therefore, in the case of pregnancy tests using urine, it is recommended to measure in the morning when the concentration of hCG in urine is higher.

[0190] In general, it is thought that the amount of antigen in vaginal excreta changes less depending on the amount of water obtained than in urine, and therefore, if antigens in vaginal excreta can be easily detected, the accuracy of antigen detection is thought to be improved. Furthermore, if antigens in vaginal excreta can be easily detected, it is thought to be significant because it will expand the options for antigen detection. Furthermore, if the antigen contained in vaginal excreta is also contained in urine, it is expected that the accuracy of antigen detection will be improved by detecting both the antigen in vaginal excreta and the antigen in urine.

[0191] On the other hand, since vaginal excretions are generally not controllable by the excretor's will, it tends to take time to detect antigens contained in vaginal excretions. Furthermore, since the vaginal opening and the urinary excretion opening are located close to each other, detection of antigens contained in vaginal excretions tends to be easily affected by urine. Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide an absorbent article that can detect antigens contained in vaginal excretions in a state where they are less affected by urine. <Means for solving the problem of Invention B>

[0192] The present inventors have discovered the following Invention B (Aspects B1 to B14): <Aspect B1> An absorbent article having a thickness direction and comprising a test strip for detecting an antigen contained in vaginal excrement, wherein the absorbent article comprises, in that order in the thickness direction, a liquid permeable top sheet, the test strip, an absorbent body, and a liquid impermeable back sheet, wherein the test strip comprises, in that order in the thickness direction, a sample pad that inhibits mucin contained in the vaginal excrement from suppressing an antigen-antibody reaction, a conjugate pad comprising a labeled antibody, and a spreading membrane comprising an immobilized antibody, wherein the sample pad or the conjugate pad is in direct contact with the absorbent body or indirect contact with the absorbent body via a liquid permeable sheet. <Aspect B2> The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the antigen contained in the vaginal excrement is also contained in urine. <Aspect B3> The absorbent article of Aspect B1 or B2, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing lower layer between the spreading layer and the absorbent body that suppresses wearer excrement absorbed by the absorbent body from migrating to the spreading layer. <Aspect B4> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects B1 to B3, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing upper layer between the spreading layer and the top sheet that suppresses wearer excrement from migrating to the spreading layer. <Aspect B5> The absorbent article of any one of Aspects B1 to B4, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing upper layer between the spreading layer and the top sheet that suppresses wearer excrement from migrating to the spreading layer, and a migration-suppressing lower layer between the spreading layer and the absorbent body that suppresses excrement absorbed by the absorbent body from migrating to the spreading layer, and wherein the test strip comprises a seal portion that seals the outer edges of the migration-suppressing upper layer and the migration-suppressing lower layer. <Aspect B6> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B5, wherein the fiber density of the sample pad is higher than the fiber density of the top sheet. <Aspect B7> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B6, wherein the hydrophilicity of the sample pad is higher than the hydrophilicity of the top sheet.<Aspect B8> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B7, wherein the sample pad is in contact with the absorbent body and the fiber density of the absorbent body is higher than that of the sample pad. <Aspect B9> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B8, wherein the sample pad is in contact with the absorbent body and the hydrophilicity of the absorbent body is higher than that of the sample pad. <Aspect B10> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B9, wherein the fiber density of the conjugate pad is higher than that of the sample pad. <Aspect B11> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B10, wherein the hydrophilicity of the conjugate pad is higher than that of the sample pad. <Aspect B12> The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B11, wherein the spreading layer is not in direct contact with the absorbent body. <Aspect B13> An absorbent article having a thickness direction and comprising a test strip for detecting an antigen contained in vaginal excrement, wherein the absorbent article comprises, in that order in the thickness direction, a liquid permeable top sheet, the test strip, an absorbent body, and a liquid impermeable back sheet, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing lower layer between the test strip and the absorbent body that suppresses transfer of wearer excrement absorbed by the absorbent body to the test strip. <Aspect B14> The absorbent article according to Aspect B13, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing upper layer between the test strip and the top sheet that suppresses transfer of wearer excrement other than the vaginal excrement to the test strip.

[0193] <Effects of Invention B> The absorbent article according to Invention B can detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement in a state where they are less susceptible to the influence of urine. <Modes for carrying out Invention B>

[0194] Specifically, Invention B of the present disclosure relates to the following aspects: [Aspect B1] An absorbent article having a thickness direction and including a test strip for detecting an antigen contained in vaginal excrement, wherein the absorbent article includes, in the thickness direction, a liquid-permeable top sheet, the test strip, an absorbent body, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet, in that order, and the test strip includes, in the thickness direction, a sample pad that inhibits mucin contained in the vaginal excrement from suppressing an antigen-antibody reaction, a conjugate pad including a labeled antibody, and a spreading membrane including an immobilized antibody, in that order, and the sample pad or the conjugate pad is in direct contact with the absorbent body or indirectly in contact with the absorbent body via a liquid-permeable sheet.

[0195] In the absorbent article, vaginal discharge (e.g., vaginal discharge or menstrual blood) reaches the liquid-permeable sheet, then permeates the liquid-permeable sheet and reaches the sample pad of the test strip. In the sample pad, the vaginal discharge is treated to inhibit the mucin contained in the vaginal discharge from suppressing the antigen-antibody reaction, and the vaginal discharge is then transferred to the conjugate pad. In the conjugate pad, the antigen contained in the vaginal discharge binds to the labeled antibody in the conjugate pad to form an immune complex, which is then transferred to the spreading membrane. In the spreading membrane, the immune complex binds to the immobilized antibody, causing color development, thereby detecting the antigen. However, since the vaginal opening and the urinary excretion opening are located close to each other, the absorbent article may absorb the wearer's urine, and the urine absorbed by the absorbent article may reach the test strip and adversely affect antigen detection. In the absorbent article, the sample pad or conjugate pad is in direct contact with the absorbent body or indirectly in contact with the absorbent body via a liquid-permeable sheet, so that urine that reaches the sample pad of the test strip can be transferred to the absorbent body. Therefore, the absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal discharge in a state where they are less affected by urine.

[0196] [Aspect B2] The absorbent article according to Aspect B1, wherein the antigen contained in the vaginal excreta is also contained in urine. In the absorbent article, the antigen to be detected, which is contained in the vaginal excreta, is also contained in urine, and thus urine tends to easily affect the detection of the antigen contained in the vaginal excreta. In the absorbent article, the sample pad or conjugate pad is in direct contact with the absorbent or indirect contact with the absorbent via a liquid-permeable sheet, allowing urine that reaches the sample pad of the test strip to be transferred to the absorbent. Therefore, the absorbent article can detect the antigen contained in the vaginal excreta without being affected by urine.

[0197] [Aspect B3] The absorbent article according to Aspect B1 or B2, wherein the test strip further comprises a migration-suppressing lower layer between the spreading layer and the absorbent body, which suppresses migration of the wearer's bodily waste absorbed by the absorbent body to the spreading layer.

[0198] The absorbent article includes a predetermined migration-suppressing lower layer, which can suppress the migration of wearer's excrement, such as vaginal excrement, urine, feces, etc., absorbed by the absorbent body, to the spreading layer. As a result, the absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement in a state where they are less susceptible to the influence of urine.

[0199] [Aspect B4] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B3, wherein the test strip further comprises a transfer-suppressing upper layer between the spreading layer and the top sheet, the transfer-suppressing upper layer preventing transfer of the wearer's bodily waste to the spreading layer.

[0200] The absorbent article includes a predetermined migration-inhibiting upper layer, which can inhibit the wearer's excrement, such as vaginal excrement, urine, feces, etc., from migrating directly to the spreading layer without passing through the sample pad and conjugate pad, and as a result, the absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement in a state where they are less affected by the excrement.

[0201] [Aspect B5] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B4, wherein the test strip further comprises a transfer-suppressing upper layer between the spreading layer and the top sheet that suppresses transfer of the wearer's excrement to the spreading layer, and a transfer-suppressing lower layer between the spreading layer and the absorbent body that suppresses transfer of the excrement absorbed by the absorbent body to the spreading layer, and the test strip comprises a seal portion that seals the outer edges of the transfer-suppressing upper layer and the transfer-suppressing lower layer.

[0202] In the absorbent article, the test strip includes a migration-inhibiting upper layer, a migration-inhibiting lower layer, and a seal portion that seals the outer edges of the layers, thereby preventing the wearer's excrement, such as vaginal excrement, urine, and feces, from migrating directly to the spreading layer without passing through the sample pad and conjugate pad. As a result, the absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement without being affected by the excrement.

[0203] [Aspect B6] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B5, wherein the fiber density of the sample pad is higher than the fiber density of the top sheet. The absorbent article facilitates the transfer of vaginal discharge from the top sheet to the sample pad.

[0204] [Aspect B7] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B6, wherein the sample pad has a higher hydrophilicity than the top sheet. The absorbent article allows vaginal exudates to be easily transferred from the top sheet to the sample pad.

[0205] [Aspect B8] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B7, wherein the sample pad is in contact with the absorbent body, and the fiber density of the absorbent body is higher than the fiber density of the sample pad. The absorbent article allows urine to easily escape from the sample pad to the absorbent body.

[0206] [Aspect B9] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B8, wherein the sample pad is in contact with the absorbent body, and the absorbent body has a higher hydrophilicity than the sample pad. The absorbent article allows urine to easily escape from the sample pad to the absorbent body.

[0207] [Aspect B10] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B9, wherein the fiber density of the conjugate pad is higher than the fiber density of the sample pad. The absorbent article allows urine to easily escape from the conjugate pad to the absorbent body.

[0208] [Aspect B11] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B10, wherein the hydrophilicity of the conjugate pad is higher than the hydrophilicity of the sample pad. The absorbent article allows urine to easily escape from the conjugate pad to the absorbent body.

[0209] [Aspect B12] The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects B1 to B11, wherein the spreading layer is not in direct contact with the absorbent body. In the absorbent article, the test strip is less susceptible to the effects of bodily excrement.

[0210] [Aspect B13] An absorbent article having a thickness direction and including a test strip for detecting an antigen contained in vaginal excrement, wherein the absorbent article includes a liquid-permeable top sheet, the test strip, an absorbent body, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet, in that order in the thickness direction, and the test strip further includes a transfer-suppressing lower layer between the test strip and the absorbent body that suppresses transfer of the wearer's excrement absorbed by the absorbent body to the test strip.

[0211] The absorbent article includes a predetermined migration-inhibiting lower layer, which can inhibit the migration of the wearer's excrement, such as vaginal excrement, urine, feces, etc., absorbed by the absorbent body, to the test strip. As a result, the absorbent article can detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement in a state where they are less susceptible to the influence of urine.

[0212] [Aspect B14] The absorbent article according to Aspect B13, wherein the test strip further comprises a transfer-suppressing upper layer between the test strip and the topsheet, which inhibits transfer of excrement other than the vaginal excrement of the wearer to the test strip.

[0213] The absorbent article includes a predetermined migration-inhibiting upper layer, which can inhibit the migration of excrement other than the wearer's vaginal excrement to the test strip, thereby enabling the absorbent article to detect antigens contained in vaginal excrement in a state where they are less susceptible to the influence of excrement.

[0214] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Absorbent article (panty liner) 3, 20 Top sheet 5 Back sheet 7, 20 Absorbent body 9 Second sheet 21, 60 Test strip 23, 64 Sample pad (first member) 25 Conjugate pad 66A Moving section (indication moving section) 66B Moving section (terminal moving section) 27 Spreading membrane 31 Upper migration suppression layer 33 Lower migration suppression layer 35 Cover tape 101 Fixing section L Front-to-back direction W Width direction CL Center CT of absorbent article in front-to-back direction L CT Center CT of test strip in front-to-back direction L SR S1 Front region of absorbent article S2 Rear region of absorbent article S3 Central region of absorbent article

Claims

1. An absorbable article having a test strip using immunochromatography for detecting luteinizing hormone (LH) from vaginal discharge, The test strip is configured to estimate that the wearer of the absorbent item is in the period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation. Absorbent material.

2. An absorbable article having a test strip using immunochromatography for detecting luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, The aforementioned test strip detects luteinizing hormone in concentrations of 0.05 mIU / mL to 10 mIU / mL as positive. The absorbent article according to claim 1.

3. An absorbable article having a test strip using immunochromatography for detecting luteinizing hormone from vaginal discharge, The aforementioned test strip detects luteinizing hormone in concentrations of 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL as positive. Absorbent material.

4. The test strip has a width of 10 mm or less. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The aforementioned test strip, A second component containing a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, and A third member having a display section containing a capture antibody. It has, The capture antibody can capture the complex formed by the binding of the labeled antibody and luteinizing hormone. The luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to move from the second member to the display portion of the third member, and The capture antibody is configured to capture the complex, thereby causing the display portion of the third member to change color. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The labeled antibody has a coloring agent having a particle size of 250 nm to 500 nm. The absorbent article according to claim 5.

7. The test strip has a movable part that connects the second member and the display part, and has a first direction which is the direction in which the discharge components move from the movable part to the display part, a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a thickness direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. The test strip comprises a center region located in the middle of the second direction and side regions located at both ends of the second direction, among the regions obtained by dividing the test strip into five equal parts in the second direction. The movable unit and the display unit are arranged in at least the center region and the side region. The maximum thickness of the center region is greater than the maximum thickness of the side region, and / or the average thickness of the center region is greater than the average thickness of the side region. The absorbent article according to claim 5.

8. The display portion of the test strip is visible from the skin side of the absorbent article. The aforementioned test strip, A migration-suppressing upper layer that prevents the wearer's excrement from migrating to the display portion of the test strip, and Transfer-inhibiting lower layer that prevents the wearer's excrement from transferring to the display area. It is equipped with, The upper layer and the lower layer of the transition suppression are in contact with the outside of the test strip in the width direction of the test strip. The absorbent article according to claim 5.

9. The absorbent article has a top sheet, When using the absorbent article, the discharge reaches the test strip via the top sheet. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. It has a front-to-back direction, a width direction perpendicular to the front-to-back direction, and a thickness direction perpendicular to both the front-to-back and width directions. In the thickness direction, starting from the skin side of the wearer during use, the top sheet and the absorbent body containing the absorbent material are further present in this order. The test strip is positioned between the top sheet and the absorbent. The absorbent article according to claim 9.

11. The test strip comprises a second member containing a labeled antibody that recognizes luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, and a third member having a display section containing a capture antibody. The capture antibody can capture the complex formed by the binding of the labeled antibody and luteinizing hormone. The luteinizing hormone in the vaginal discharge is configured to move from the second member to the display portion of the third member, and The capture antibody is configured to capture the complex, thereby causing the display portion of the third member to change color. The skin-facing sheet having a colored area is positioned closer to the skin than the test strip. The labeled antibody in the second member of the test strip has a coloring agent, and When viewed from the skin side, the labeled antibody in the second member is covered by the colored region of the skin-side sheet. The absorbent article according to claim 9.

12. The detection is performed by directly contacting at least a portion of the top sheet with the vagina. The absorbent article according to claim 9.

13. The test strip has a sample pad as a first component that comes into contact with vaginal discharge, and this sample pad is positioned facing the wearer's vagina when worn. The fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the sample pad is the same as or smaller than the fiber diameter of the fibers constituting the top sheet. The absorbent article according to claim 9.

14. The test strip has a sample pad as a first component that comes into contact with vaginal discharge, and this sample pad is positioned facing the wearer's vagina when worn. The top sheet and the sample pad are made of a sheet having fibers, The average interfiber distance of the top sheet is longer than the average interfiber distance of the sample pad. The absorbent article according to claim 9.

15. A test strip for absorbable articles using an immunochromatographic method to detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, The test strip is configured to estimate that the wearer of the absorbent item is in the period from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation. Test strip.

16. A test strip for absorbable articles using an immunochromatographic method to detect luteinizing hormone in vaginal discharge, Luteinizing hormone levels of 0.05 mIU / mL to 2.5 mIU / mL are detected as positive. Test strip.