I am a 54 year old female and had a severe nephritis infection when I was 6. Since then I have had 3 more serious bouts of nephritis. 3 other members of my family also have blood in the urine, but I occasionally get protein in the urine too. My kidney function has decreased in the last three years and my doctor is now concerned. Having seen a specialist it has been suggested I have a kidney biopsy. However, I am extremely weary of such an invasive procedure, especially in the light of the fact that I am actually very healthy in general. In the end it is my decision, but I am finding this a very difficult one to make. Any help will be gratefully accepted.