answer:From this website - Acquired vs Congenital Hernias Hernias can also be classified by when they occur. A person may be born with a hernia, or a hernia may be acquired from daily activity. Acquired hernias are caused by the wear and tear of living, such as childbirth, weight gain, and other muscle strain. Congenital hernias are present from birth and happen at points of weakness in the abdominal wall. Children’s hernias are almost always congenital.