"i&#039;ve been on the depo shot for almost 8 years. the first two shots were the toughest to go through, but nothing compared to my regular period. i bled so badly before depo i was wearing a pad and tampon, changing both every hour. incapacitated by the painful cramps and back pain, mood swings. between the 3rd shot and now, 7 1/2 years later, no period or mood swings. it&#039;s been amazing. the only time i spot is when i&#039;m getting close to my due date for my next shot. so a friendly reminder."