Birth control... Good or bad?

I've been off the birth control pill for a little over a week. I've been on birth control for ten years. I tried the shot, but I gained fifty pounds in three months. It was terrible. In all honesty, I do not remember life without birth control. I've always had bowel movement problems. I might use the bathroom once every two weeks. Well, since I haven't been taking the pill I've used the bathroom several times. I feel good! I've always thought it has had negative effects on me. Has anyone else experienced this?