Hi Darkeyes - I haven't heard anything about lithium causing menstrual problems. I do not think that it affects prolactin levels, whch would be an indication that it would stop menses.

I believe that you are feeling the effects of the lithium and your perceived improved mood is real and not placebo effect. You can feel some improvement in about 5 days and full effect can be seen in 2 to 4 weeks. I am glad to hear that the lithium is working for you. I cannot really assess the improvement in you without seeing and talking to you face to face, but you seem happier in your posts. That and the fact that lithium has it helped you brother for 30 years makes me think that the improvement is real. Your doc will be able to assess your mood much better than I can, so be blunt with him on Tuesday, and ask if he notices any improvement. Let him talk to you for awhile before asking, so he has a chance to assess you, though; this way he won't be swayed by the fact that you want him to see some improvement that may not be there. I really doubt that he won't notice your improvement, though.

I think that it is great that you are feeling better (aside from the menopause thing. Hey, we're all getting older, I turn 40(!) today. Yikes, I've reached middle age; I never thought I'd get there, but here I am.

Take care and keep us updated. - Cam