In a body adhering absorbent article, an absorbent structure is configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer's vaginal region to absorb bodily fluids discharged by the wearer. A shell supports the absorbent structure at the vaginal region and has an adhesive on a body-facing surface thereof for adhering the shell directly to the wearer. A placement aid is disposed on at least one of the absorbent structure and the shell to facilitate placement on the wearer. Securement components may be provided for securing the article in a folded configuration during wear and/or to the wearer's undergarment. Detachment components may also be provided to facilitate detachment of the article from the wearer.