An absorbent article is disclosed comprising a central absorbent member, an outer absorbent member, and a central rising member for urging the central absorbent member toward the body of the user when compressed laterally inward by the legs of the user. The article is able to achieve good center-fill performance when in use and maintain excellent body fit. Also disclosed is a lateral wicking barrier for inhibition of wicking from the central regions of the article to an outlying outer absorbent member. The combination of a wicking barrier isolating the central absorbent member from the longitudinal sides of the article and a central rising member urging the central absorbent member toward the body yields an article with excellent absorbency and leakage protection.