Depo can be hard on the bones for some people. There are now warning lables from the FDA that require Health Care Providers to educate people for potential side effects regarding bone mineral density loss.

Women need to be sure the get the minimum daily requirements of calcium which is between 100-1200mg. When I prescribe Depo I give hardouts on high calcium foods and usually recommended calcium supplements to make up the difference as it is hard to meet the minimum from diet alone.

Also important is getting enough weight-bearing exercise which includes walking and running which encourages bones to retain calcium. Too bad cycling isn't one.

Our clinic encourages women to use Depo for two year cycles with a year "off" to help prevent bone demineralization. If they have good reasons to go beyond two years with use, they are also encouraged to check their bone density with either a heel scan or a Dexa scan (a more expensive and more accurate scan) and their risk factors for osteoporosis is determined.

In my experience, many have varied experiences with spotting while on Depo. Some periods cease immediately. Some cease or greatly reduce by the third dose. But there are some women who then either choose to discontinue it or spot frequently. Others have a cyclic MP about every 12 weeks.

With all its peculiarites, Depo is a very good method for many, including women who have dysmenorrhea, anemia, certain types of migraines, and other health conditions that prevent them from using estrogen safely. Many users are women who have problems remembering to use the pill consistently. Hope this helps a bit.