An absorbent article is disclosed for absorbing liquids, including body fluids such as menstrual discharges or urine. The absorbent article has a liquid impermeable backsheet on which is disposed an absorbent core, and first and second liquid permeable topsheet layers. The edge of the absorbent core defines a perimeter, and the first and second topsheet layers and the backsheet each extend laterally beyond the perimeter to define a continuous border segment surrounding the absorbent core. A liquid impermeable seal is formed in the border segment which surrounds the perimeter for preventing lateral migration of liquid from the absorbent core beyond the seal. The seal is formed to extend from an outer surface of the first topsheet layer to an outer surface of the backsheet, for establishing a capillary gradient in the second topsheet layer, thereby inhibiting wicking of fluid therethrough.