An absorbent article can have a topsheet layer, a backsheet layer, and an absorbent system positioned between the topsheet layer and the backsheet layer. The absorbent system can have at least a fluid intake layer, an absorbent core, and a distribution layer. The fluid intake layer and the absorbent core can define an aligned annular opening in the absorbent system and can maintain the topsheet layer in a spaced apart relationship from the distribution layer.