What causes hernia

There is usually no obvious reason for a hernia, except for an incisional hernia being a complication of abdominal surgery. Risk of hernia increases with age and is more common in men than women.1

A hernia can be congenital - present at birth - or develop in children with a weakness in their abdominal wall.2

Certain activities and medical problems raise pressure on the abdominal wall and can lead to a hernia, including:1,2

Straining on the toilet, for example because of long-term constipation
Long-term cough
Cystic fibrosis
Enlarged prostate
Straining to urinate
Being overweight or obese
Abdominal fluid
Lifting heavy items
Peritoneal dialysis
Poor nutrition
Smoking
Physical exertion
Undescended testicles.