When is a Good Time to Decide...

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That the Depo-shot just isn't working for you?

I started out with a normal menstrual cycle at age 13, but ever since I was 15, my menstrual periods have been getting increasingly heavier and more painful. This year they became quite unbearable, so I went to my gynaecologist, who prescribed strong pain meds, which were ineffective in relieving the pain, so she recommended birth control.
Normally I'd stick with the pill, as it is one of the most common and painless methods, however, I already take various medications which would make the pill ineffective as well, so she recommended the Depo-shot. Getting the shot wasn't too pleasant since I was told to pick the shot up at my local pharmacy the day before the injection, which meant I would have it with me at home and have to carry it around all of the following day until I make it to my appointment (not the most comforting feeling if you hate needles.) Anyway, the injection itself did not hurt at all, but my arm was pretty darn sore for 3 or 4 days, other than that I felt great...
... Or at least up until a week later. That's when I got my almost 3 weeks early. I thought the shot was supposed to prevent that. Or else what would be the point of having an appointment only to discuss different methods of getting rid of my period? What bothers me even more is that I'm almost at the 7 days mark of having my period and it doesn't seem to be even close to ending anytime soon.

I know it's probably too early to decide now, since I just got the shot about 2 weeks ago, but I'm wondering when would be a good time to decide so I could set up some reminders for myself. Any help would be much appreciated.

It could be that your cycle has shifted. Perhaps wait to see if it is consistently at this new time of the month, or if it is irregular. If it is irregular, perhaps you should talk to your doctor. I'm speculating. I had an IUD, but I've never had Depo.

I know it's too late to back out for 3 months, but if you do plan on ever having kids, depo isn't the greatest idea. Studies show after the last shot it easily takes up to 2 years to be able to have kids, and I have reason to believe it made me estrogen dominent. Which, with the periods you are describing, isn't really something you want.

That being said... depo takes time to work and cancel out your periods. How long ago were you on it? I know the first month I was on it, I had my period as regularly scheduled, and then I didn't have it for another year (how long I was on it). So if you just got it 2-3 weeks ago (that's what it sounds like to me), I'd wait and see about next month. Besides, you will be on Depo until the 3 months are up anyways- that's how long it stays in your system. So you have plenty of time to evaluate and decide.