An absorbent article including an absorption member including an absorbent body for absorbing body fluids. The absorption member having an upper side intended to face a wearer during use of the article and a lower side intended to face away from the wearer during use of the article, and a stiffening element that, at least during use of the article, provides the article with a predetermined shape that enhances the fit of the article to the wearers body. The stiffening element is fastened to the lower side of the absorption member and the stiffening element includes a piece of material formed into a layered structure that significantly contributes to the stiffness of the stiffening element. The layered structure can be extended to a non-layered structure. The piece of material is provided with a first attachment for locking a rolled up or folded used article.