In congenital hydrocoele, the processus vaginalis is patent and connects with the peritoneal cavity. The communication is usually too small to allow herniation of intra-abdominal contents. Pressure on the hydrocoele does not always empty it but the hydrocoele fluid may drain into the peritoneal cavity when the child is lying down; thus, the hydrocoele may be intermittent. Ascites should be checked for if the swellings are bilateral