The present invention relates to an absorbent article comprising topsheet 6, backsheet 9, an absorbent core 7 positioned between the topsheet 6 and the backsheet 9, and fastening elements 22, wherein the absorbent articles comprises a first fold 40 extending transversely across the central absorbent region 5 so that the front waist region 2 and the back waist 3 region are positioned in side-by-side configuration； and the absorbent article further comprises a second fold 50 extending transversely across the front and back waist regions 2, 3. The second fold 50 extends transversely across the front and back waist regions 2, 3 along a line which lies between the outward edge of the absorbent core and the inner edge of the fastening elements 22.Preferably the absorbent articles are formed into an array of absorbent articles, and preferably the array of absorbent articles is compressed and held within a flexible sleeve which forms an outer casing to provide a stable and compact package of the absorbent articles.
