Rheumatoid Arthritis

Hi,
I am a 37 yr old female diagnosed (symptoms only, RH blood negative) with rheumatoid arthitis. I have noticed that I only really flare up when I have my menses, which lasts two weeks. Then I have two good weeks, then two weeks where I am practically bedridden. Is joint pain part of perimenopause? Am I a candidate for hysterectomy (keeping ovaries?)? I asked doc if i could try Seasonale, thereby hoping to only having two bad weeks every three months, instead of every month. He first prescribed the mini pill Nora-Be for me to take straight for three months, which apparently isn't strong enough, because I started anyway. I called and reported this, expecting the Seasonale, but instead he's referring me to an RN specializing in woman. Rheummy is ready to prescribe a stronger DMARD - he knows hormones play a role, but how/what/when etc is not known. Does anyone have any similar experiences? I am at wits end - half of my life is spent practically in bed in intense pain. Any comments would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Kesm

(((Kesm)))) As one who's been dealing with "arthritic pains" for several years now, with RA being suspected, I can imagine your pain In my case, the pains only flared after my hyst, so wouldn't know if having a hysterectomy would clear your symptoms. One thing I do know is that RA is an autoimmune disorder and that traumas and stress often are triggers. It can be that the stress or trauma trigger a dormant condition or that it increases the flares of pre-existing conditions. Surgery and, consequently a hysterectomy, is considered a trauma to the body.

Here's a link to our Resources Library on Autoimmune disorders where, hopefully, you'll find the information you're looking for:

http://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/lin...=browse&cid=31

Wishing you the best of luck in your look for answers and hoping that you find some relief soon