Three-dimensional shaped absorbent article with a bicomponent baffle

An absorbent article is disclosed for absorbing and retaining human exudate. The article includes a liquid permeable bodyside liner, a baffle and an absorbent positioned therebetween. The baffle is constructed of a liquid-impermeable inner layer and a cloth-like outer layer. The baffle and liner are joined together about their outer peripheries to enclose the absorbent. The absorbent has an hourglass shape with enlarged end portions separated by a narrow center portion. A pair of walls are formed on opposite sides of the center portion of the absorbent by securing an elastic strip between the liner and the baffle. The walls extend upward and outward from the center portion and are separated by a distance approximately equal to the width of one of the end portions. The upstanding walls prevent side leakage of body fluid, especially during periods of high fluid flow.