The sanitary napkin includes an inner core of absorbent material that is spirally or helically wound along its length and tapers in diameter from a larger first end to a smaller second end. A layer of soft, pliable, liquid-pervious material encapsulates the inner core. The larger end of the napkin is configured in a thin flat profile and is provided a string or other positioning member to enhance placement and removal of the napkin. Although described above as an absorbent pad for vaginal discharge, it is recognized that the napkin could also be used to absorb rectal discharge in instances after hemorrhoid surgery and the like.