Hinged absorbent pad

Abstract

A disposable absorbent breast pad comprises a pad cover with multiple absorbent layers, a pad base having a central opening and an adhesive layer configured to adhere to a user's breast around a nipple, a hinge connecting the pad cover to the pad base, and a releasable fastener configured to secure the pad cover in a closed position over the central opening. The pad cover is movable via the hinge between the closed position covering the central opening and an open position exposing the central opening to provide access to the nipple while maintaining adhesion of the pad base to the breast. The multiple absorbent layers include an outer fluid impermeable layer, a super-absorbent polymer layer, and an inner soft absorbent layer. The pad eliminates the need for a bra and functions as a nipple bib when opened.

Description

HINGED ABSORBENT PADBackground of the InventionField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to absorbent pads for medical and personal care applications. More specifically, the present invention relates to disposable absorbent breast pads that adhere directly to the skin and feature a hinged mechanism for selective nipple exposure while maintaining absorption capabilities.Description of Related Prior Art

[0002] Nipples, also known as mammary papillae, are often thought of for their function in breastfeeding in human females. Females who breastfeed, are currently pregnant, recently delivered a baby, or recently experienced pregnancy loss can experience unwanted leakage of breastmilk from the nipples. Leakage of breastmilk can spontaneously occur during times when mothers are not actively breastfeeding or pumping breastmilk. It is important to note that pregnancy and post-partum breastfeeding are not the only times in which fluid can leak from the nipples. In both males and females there are medical conditions such breast injury, infection, cancer, endocrine disorders, medication side effects, and numerous other causes in which various fluids can leak from one or both nipples.

[0003] Leakage of fluid from nipples is inconvenient and can cause distress, anxiety, and embarrassment to those experiencing this condition. Leakage of fluid onto clothing and nearby environment can cause undesired odor. Leakage of breastmilk may lead to nursingmothers ceasing lactation prematurely. There is a need for more effective solutions to absorb undesired leakage of the fluids discharging from the nipples.

[0004] Users of existing disposable / reusable breast pads used to absorb leakage of breastmilk / fluids often still end up experiencing leaks of these breastmilk / fluids onto clothing and surrounding areas, such as bedding when asleep. Current pads are placed within a bra / brassier to remain in place in front of the nipples to absorb fluid. Some disposable breast pads use adhesive to adhere themselves to the user's bra in an attempt to remain in a desired location for optimal fluid absorption. However, users of the current products often experience these breast pads becoming dislodged, displaced, or folded within the bra as the user exhibits a wide range of different body movements throughout the day. This disruption of the placement of the breast pad results in undesired leakage.

[0005] To breastfeed with the pads described, the mother needs to remove the pad completely away from the breast to allow access to the nipple for the infant. This creates an unprotected time for leakage of breastmilk from the nipple or leakage of breastmilk from the mouth of the infant. There is a need for absorbent breast pads that secure themselves in place over the nipple more effectively with continued absorbance of breastmilk leakage from the nipple and infant's mouth during breastfeeding, functioning as a breastmilk bib.

[0006] There are existing devices used to collect breastmilk leaking from nipples in reusable hard plastic reservoirs as opposed to absorbent pads. Collected breastmilk can then be saved or discarded. These devices also require the use of a bra to hold them in place over the nipples. Plastic milk collecting reservoirs can be uncomfortable to wear due to their rigidity pressing on the breasts inside a bra, especially when the user attempts to lay down or sleep ina prone position. These devices are also prone to leakage when not in an upright position or while laying supine. Stomach or side sleepers often experience milk collection devices failing or leaking while asleep due to the components of the product becoming disconnected and separated with various body movements. These rigid devices can be more restrictive to movements of the arms and chest during exercise or other physical activity. Users of milk collection devices can experience breastmilk splashing and sloshing onto the nipples within the reservoir, preventing the nipples from remaining dry.

[0007] Existing silicone pads on the market can be used to cover the nipples. However, these products do not absorb breastmilk or other fluids. Fluids that discharge under silicone pads can entrap the nipples in a moist environment as opposed to wicking away moisture from the nipples. Nipples remaining in a moist environment can develop pain, irritation, rash, or fungal infection that can be exposed to breastfeeding infants. Silicone pads can cling to skin for a relatively short period of time but become displaced from breast / nipples with prolonged use and moisture exposure and often require a bra or tight-fitting shirt to assist the cling feature of silicone in attempt to hold them in place.

[0008] A common theme of reusable / disposable breast pads and wearable breastmilk collection devices that currently exist includes the necessity to wear a bra to hold them in place.Wearing a bra can be uncomfortable and painful to the user. Mastitis and other medical conditions of the breast can be complicated with prolonged use of a bra. Sleep is an extended span of time that women often don't want to wear a bra for comfortability. Women who require absorbent pads during sleep are forced to wear a bra if they want to prevent leakage of milk / fluids onto their clothing or bedding. If women do use the current absorbent pads within a bra, they often become displaced from the nipple, causing leakage. Overall, sleepwith leaking breasts tends to be very uncomfortable, which could cause breastfeeding mothers to want to stop breastfeeding due to these frequent leaks and messes. Alternatively, males experiencing medical conditions resulting in nipple discharge likely would not want to wear traditionally female garments in order to hold absorbent pads in place.

[0009] Nipples, areolas, and the surrounding breast skin / tissue can become irritated, cracked, and painful from constant repetition of breastfeeding and breast milk pumping, as well as friction from clothing and breast garments, such as a bra. There are conditions such as cancer, eczema, infections, and other medical ailments that can cause pain and irritation to the nipples as well. Pain, irritation, rash, and other circumstances may necessitate the need for barrier protection and medication application the nipples and the surrounding area. Existing methods of providing barrier protection and applying topical medication / ointment / creams to this area involves the use of traditional adhesive bandages or chest wrap. Repeat dosing of medication and further medical assessment of the nipple and surrounding area is not convenient with chest wraps and traditional adhesive bandages. Repeated removal of the adhesive on a traditional bandage for medication reapplication and medical assessment may lead to further skin irritation.

[0010] There is a need for a more effective solution to cover the nipples for barrier protection, while still allowing easy access for nipple exposure when necessary.Summary of the Invention

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a disposable absorbent breast pad that more effectively absorbs leakage of fluids and breastmilk from nipples by adhering directly to the user's breast without requiring the use of a bra, brassiere, or other garment tohold it in place. It is a further object to provide enhanced comfort when compared to wearing breast pads or devices that require the use of a bra. It is another object to provide modesty by covering exposed nipples when no bra or shirt is worn, including circumstances in which a bra is not capable of being worn or not permitted to be worn in healthcare or other settings. It is yet another object to allow for easily accessible exposure of the nipple for breastfeeding, medication application, or other medical assessment of nipples without the need to remove the adhesive holding the product in place. It is a further object to provide a pad that functions as a nipple bib to absorb inadvertent leakage of milk from the nipple and / or infant's mouth during breastfeeding.

[0012] The present invention provides a disposable absorbent breast pad comprising a pad cover with multiple absorbent layers, a pad base having a central opening and an adhesive layer configured to adhere to a user's breast around a nipple, a hinge connecting the pad cover to the pad base, and a releasable fastener configured to secure the pad cover in a closed position over the central opening. The pad cover is movable via the hinge between the closed position covering the central opening and an open position exposing the central opening to provide access to the nipple while maintaining adhesion of the pad base to the breast. The multiple absorbent layers may comprise an outer fluid impermeable layer, a super-absorbent polymer layer, and an inner soft absorbent layer configured to contact the nipple. The inner soft absorbent layer may comprise bamboo fiber or cotton. The adhesive layer comprises a skinsafe adhesive disposed around a perimeter of the pad base and may include a removable protective covering. The releasable fastener may comprise a hook-and-loop fastener, and the pad cover and pad base form a one-piece structure connected at the hinge.

[0013] The invention also encompasses a broader disposable absorbent pad comprising an absorbent portion with multiple layers including an outer impermeable layer, an absorbent core, and an inner permeable layer, an adhesive portion having a central cutout and an adhesive layer configured to adhere to skin around a body opening, a hinge connecting the absorbent portion to the adhesive portion, and a fastening mechanism configured to secure the absorbent portion over the central cutout. The absorbent portion is movable between a closed position covering the central cutout and an open position exposing the central cutout while maintaining adhesion of the adhesive portion to the skin. The body opening may be a nipple for breast application or a wound for wound care application.

[0014] The invention further includes a method of using a disposable absorbent breast pad comprising removing a protective covering from an adhesive layer of a pad base having a central opening, adhering the pad base to a breast with a nipple positioned through the central opening, securing a pad cover over the central opening using a releasable fastener to form a closed configuration, opening the releasable fastener to move the pad cover via a hinge to an open position exposing the nipple while maintaining adhesion of the pad base, and positioning the pad cover to function as a bib below the exposed nipple.

[0015] These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a review of the following drawings and detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] The present invention can be best understood in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure l is a front elevation view of the disposable absorbent breast pad showing the pad cover in a closed position.

[0018] Figure l is a front elevation view of the disposable absorbent breast pad showing the pad cover in an open position.

[0019] Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the pad base showing the adhesive layer and central opening.

[0020] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the disposable absorbent breast pad showing the pad cover in a partially open position separated from the pad base to illustrate the hinge connection.

[0021] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the disposable absorbent breast pad showing the pad cover in a an open position, and showing cross-sectional side views of the multiple layers of the pad cover and base.

[0022] Figure 6 is a front elevation view showing the pad adhered to breasts in both closed and open positions.

[0023] Figure 7 is a front elevation view showing the pad adhered to the torso in both closed and open positions for wound care application.

[0024] Figure 8 is a front elevation view showing various alternative shapes for the disposable absorbent pad.Detailed Description of the Invention

[0025] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the embodiments described herein, reference is now made to the drawings and descriptions in the following written specification. No limitation to the scope of the subject matter is intended by the references. This disclosure also includes any alterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the described embodiments as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which this document pertains.

[0026] Referring to the drawings, the present invention provides a disposable absorbent breast pad 10 that addresses the shortcomings of existing breast pad technologies. The pad 10 comprises a pad cover 11 and a pad base 12 connected by a hinge 14, allowing for selective exposure of a nipple while maintaining secure adhesion to the breast.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1 - Figure 4, the disposable absorbent breast pad 10 includes a pad cover 11 that can be secured in a closed position over a central opening 13 in the pad base 12.The pad cover 11 comprises multiple absorbent layers designed to effectively absorb and contain fluid leakage. A releasable fastener 15, preferably comprising a hook-and-loop fastener, secures the pad cover 11 in the closed position.

[0028] The layered construction of the pad cover 11 is illustrated in Figure 4 and Figure 5. The pad cover 11 includes an outer fluid impermeable layer X that forms a waterproof barrier to prevent absorbed fluids from passing through the pad. A super-absorbent polymer layer Yprovides the primary fluid absorption capacity, designed to wick fluid away from the skin. An inner soft absorbent layer Z comprises a soft, fabric-like material such as bamboo fiber or cotton that comfortably contacts the nipple and allows fluids to pass through to the superabsorbent polymer layer Y.

[0029] The pad base 12 includes a central opening 13 sized to accommodate a nipple, typically having a diameter of approximately 3 to 3.5 inches. The pad base 12 further comprises a textile layer A that provides structural support and an adhesive layer B disposed around the perimeter of the pad base 12. The adhesive layer B comprises a skin-safe, preferably hypoallergenic adhesive that allows the pad 10 to adhere directly to the breast without requiring a bra or other garment for support.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, a removable protective covering C protects the adhesive layer B during packaging and storage. The protective covering C must be removed prior to application of the pad 10 to the breast.

[0031] The hinge 14 connects the pad cover 11 to the pad base 12, forming a one-piece structure.The hinge 14 allows the pad cover 11 to move between a closed position covering the central opening 13 and an open position exposing the central opening 13 to provide access to the nipple. Importantly, the adhesion of the pad base 12 to the breast is maintained during this movement, eliminating the need to remove and reapply the entire pad.

[0032] Figure 6 illustrates the pad 10 in use, showing application to both a right breast 100a and a left breast 100b. The right breast 100a shows the pad 10 in the closed position, while the left breast 100b shows the pad 10 in the open position with the left nipple 101b exposed.When in the open position, the pad cover 11 functions as a bib positioned below the exposed nipple to catch any inadvertent leakage during breastfeeding or other activities.

[0033] The pad 10 typically has a thickness of approximately 1-3 millimeters and a diameter of approximately 5 inches, though these dimensions may be varied based on user needs and preferences. The compact profile ensures discretion while providing effective absorption capacity.

[0034] The invention also encompasses broader applications beyond breast care. As shown in Figure 7, the same pad design can be applied to wound care, with the pad 10 adhered around a wound W to provide protection while allowing access for medication application and assessment.

[0035] Figure 8 illustrates various alternative shapes for the pad 10, demonstrating that the core functionality is not limited to circular configurations. The pad 10 may be manufactured in star, oval, rectangular, triangular, heart-shaped, or other configurations while maintaining the essential hinge mechanism and adhesive attachment features.

[0036] In use, the method comprises removing the protective covering C from the adhesive layer B, adhering the pad base 12 to the breast with the nipple positioned through the central opening 13, and securing the pad cover 11 over the central opening 13 using the releasable fastener 15. When nipple access is required, the releasable fastener 15 is opened to move the pad cover 11 to the open position, exposing the nipple while maintaining adhesion of the pad base 12. The pad cover 11 is positioned to function as a bib below the exposed nipple. The releasable fastener 15 can be resealed to return the pad cover 11 to the closed configuration as needed.

[0037] The present invention solves multiple problems associated with existing breast pad technologies. By adhering directly to the skin rather than relying on a bra for positioning, the pad 10 eliminates displacement issues common with conventional pads. The hinge mechanism allows for nipple access without removing the adhesive bond, providing convenience for breastfeeding, medication application, and medical assessment. The pad 10 also provides modesty coverage in situations where bras cannot be worn, such as in certain healthcare settings.

[0038] This detailed description, and particularly the specific details of the exemplary embodiment disclosed, is given primarily for clearness of understanding and no unnecessary limitations are to be understood therefrom, for modifications will become evident to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure and may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed invention.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMSreceived by the International Bureau on24 May 2026 (24.05.2026)1. A disposable absorbent breast pad comprising:a pad cover comprising multiple absorbent layers, wherein the multiple absorbent layerscomprise an outer fluid impermeable layer; a super-absorbent polymer layer, and an inner softabsorbent layer configured to contact the nipple;a pad base having a central opening and comprising an adhesive layer configured to adhere to a user's breast around a nipple;a hinge connecting the pad cover to the pad base;wherein the pad cover is movable via the hinge between the closed position covering the central opening and an open position exposing the central opening to provide access to the nipple whilemaintaining adhesion of the pad base to the breast.

2. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, further comprising a releasable fastenerconfigured to secure the pad cover in a closed position over the central opening3. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the inner soft absorbent layercomprises bamboo fiber or cotton.

4. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 3, wherein the adhesive layer comprises a skin¬safe adhesive disposed around a perimeter of the pad base.

5. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 4, further comprising a removable protective covering over the adhesive layer.

6. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 2, wherein the releasable fastener comprises ahook-and-loop fastener.

7. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the pad cover and pad base form a one-piece structure connected at the hinge.

8. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the pad has a thickness of approximately 1-3 millimeters.

9. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the pad has a diameter of approximately 5 inches.

10. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the central opening has a diameter of approximately 3 to 3.5 inches.

11. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the pad cover is configured to function as a bib to absorb fluid leakage when in the open position.

12. The disposable absorbent breast pad of claim 1, wherein the hinge is positioned to allow the pad cover to fold downward when the pad is adhered to the breast.

13. A disposable absorbent pad comprising:an absorbent portion comprising multiple layers including an outer impermeable layer, an absorbent core comprising superabsorbent polymer material, and an inner permeable layer; an adhesive portion having a central cutout and comprising an adhesive layer configured to adhere to skin around a body opening, wherein the body opening is a nipple and the pad is configured for breast application;a hinge connecting the absorbent portion to the adhesive portion;wherein the absorbent portion is movable between a closed position covering the central cutoutand an open position exposing the central cutout while maintaining adhesion of the adhesive portion to the skin.

14. The disposable absorbent pad of claim 13, further comprising a fastening mechanism configured to secure the absorbent portion over the central cutout.

15. The disposable absorbent pad of claim 14, wherein the absorbent portion is moved from the closed position to the open position after the fastening mechanism is released.

16. The disposable absorbent pad of claim 14, wherein the fastening mechanism comprises a hook-and-loop fastener attached to the absorbent portion.

17. The disposable absorbent pad of claim 13, wherein the absorbent portion is positioned below and extends outwardly from the central cutout in the open position.

18. The disposable absorbent pad of claim 13, wherein the adhesive layer is disposed around a perimeter of the adhesive portion and excludes the central cutout.

19. A method of using a disposable absorbent breast pad comprising:removing a protective covering from an adhesive layer of a pad base having a central opening; adhering the pad base to a breast with a nipple positioned through the central opening; securing a pad cover over the central opening using a releasable fastener to form a closed configuration;opening the releasable fastener to move the pad cover via a hinge to an open position exposing the nipple while maintaining adhesion of the pad base; andpositioning the pad cover to function as a bib below the exposed nipple.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising resealing the releasable fastener to return the padcover to the closed configuration over the central opening.

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