Diagnosis

Severe cases of hemophilia usually are diagnosed within the first year of life. Mild forms might not be apparent until adulthood. Some people learn they have hemophilia after they bleed excessively during a surgical procedure.

Clotting-factor tests can reveal a clotting-factor deficiency and determine how severe the hemophilia is.

For people with a family history of hemophilia, genetic testing might be used to identify carriers to make informed decisions about becoming pregnant.

It's also possible to determine during pregnancy if the fetus is affected by hemophilia. However, the testing poses some risks to the fetus. Discuss the benefits and risks of testing with your doctor.