That arthritis may be a need to adjust the premerian/estrogen they have you on..or maybe you need to be on one.
I had a hysterectomy at 43, have not regretted it. I was put on premerians (the smallest dose)..ugh...awful aches, pains, mood swings...gave them to my sister...no problems after that!
If you are on one that is not maroon in color...ask for the maroon.
Do try the Sharon Schamber method (someone put a link in their reply to you). It works great!
Marge