A hernia is the leakage of abdominal contents from the abdominal cavity through the abdominal wall. There is always a gap, a hernia sac and the hernia contents. It can be congenital (weakness of the connective tissue) or acquired in the course of life. For example, heavy physical work, increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, chronic coughing or heavy pressing due to chronic constipation can promote the formation of a hernia. A hernia typically develops at certain weak points in the abdominal wall. These weak points are the groin, the navel and the diaphragm at the point where the esophagus passes through. In principle, however, a hernia can occur in any part of the abdominal wall, especially if the abdomen has previously undergone surgery.