"i was on the shot for 2 years. i&#039;m 5&#039;3 120 pounds naturally. i weighed up to 130 while on the shot. it is extremely effective for protection against pregnancy. although i have no sex drive and terrible mood swings and weight gain in abdomen, face and buttocks. the pros would be clear skin and effectiveness against pregnancy but wouldn&#039;t recommend it for short term birth control or for women who gain weight easily. took my body almost a year to regulate itself after stopping."