An absorbent article (20) includes a fastening tab (44) connected to each side edge in a first waistband section (40). Each fastening tab has a user bond section (52) that is adapted for securing the article during use. A pair of laterally separated, elasticized side sections (90) of the article are operatively connected to the first waistband section to provide the article with a spatially discontinuous lateral elasticity. The absorbent article thereby notionally defines a fastening panel (200) which is located in the first waistband section and, as shown, extends longitudinally from one end edge inward and laterally between the user bond sections (52) of the fastening tabs (44). The fastening panel provides a first cycle extension force of less than about 1720 grams at a 27 percent lateral extension. Several constructional details of the fastening tabs (44) are described. <IMAGE>
