Hi! I've been on the depo since i was 16/17, i am now 20 and so far i've had no adverse affects. However biologically i'm not so sure any more having read about the risks of osteoporosis and weight gain etc (i've always found it shocking that as much exercise as i do i'm never able to get below 10.5stone :|). I originally went on the depo due to heavy periods with intense cramps in my lower stomach/back and legs that would last more than a week at a time (had a period last more than a month at one stage). So i went through all the tests with gyno and nothing came up which was extremely disappointing as i was starting to become seriously depressed (had a massive effect on my studies). So i tried the pill and needless to say it made everything worse. I was starting to lose the will to live when I visited my local gp (who was having a similar time of it) and she gave me the depo to try. As soon as i tried it my period totally stopped, no pains, nothing - it was amazing, totally changed my life! Suddenly my life was getting back on track and I've only every got more and more confident since. Having had that experience I will NEVER go back to having a period again. BUT I'm now considering a different treatment for I'm worried about the long-term effects of the depo. I don't think the nhs will allow for me to have a hysterectomy, for i am too young (which sucks). So i was wondering what my options are? I know categorically i do NOT want children - honestly take my word for it, it's not going to happen. So what else is out there for getting rid of periods+pain naturally without gaining weight etc. Also i would prefer it if it wasn't drawn out as i don't think i could handle being in limbo again like before . Next doctor appointment i'm going to ask for a bone density test to see if my bones healthy (however i didn't do this prior to depo usage which i now realize is should have ...) but it should atleast say whether they are ok. Basically I'm a young fit lady who enjoys karate, mountain biking,kitesurfing,spinning,swimming, well any sport really on a regular basis so i want to keep all this up at all costs without any period - just could not ever go back to worrying about that time of the month again! Please if anyone has some advice i would be entirely grateful . Thankyou