Getting off Depo

I go to see my doctor for my yearly this September, and I'm deeply considering getting off of Depo-Provera after almost a year of use.

I didn't have many problems with the Depo in the beginning, but as time progressed, things went downhill - I've gained about ten pounds (which I did expect, but it's still awful), I'm having horrible back pains, and I've never been more moody in my life. I've also noticed that I've become a lot more anxious, as well.

My weight gain is fairly resistant to diet and excercise, and my doctor says this is normal with the Depo, because it's such a high dose of hormones. She also says that the side effects will be lesser if I choose to get on the pill, or a different form of birth control that ISN'T such a high dose.

I've heard that Depo can stay in your body for quite some time even after you stop the shots, and I'm wondering if that will mean that these side effects will be long-lasting even if I DO try a different birth control.

Does anyone have any experience with this matter?

Also, what birth control would you guys recommend? I've done quite a bit of research myself, but I'd like some real, human thoughts and opinions.

I'm a bit scared, after all the horror stories I've heard about women getting pregnant on the pill - which is why I went with Depo in the first place. What other effective options are out there? Or am I simply judging the pill a little too harshly?

Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!