Can rheumatoid arthritis pain follow my menstrual cycle?

I have rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease. I've noticed the joint pain is so much worse right before my menstrual cycle. Has anyone else experienced this? I assume it's from the changing hormone levels. I have little to no pain during the rest of the month.
My doctor says there should be no relation, but it occurs every month like clockwork. He's referring me to a rheumatologist, but I still think there is a link here.