Does birth control ruin your body?

Birth control =/= hormonal birth control.

There are many forms of birth control, hormonal birth control options aren't the only options - if you're concerned about the side-effects of hormonal birth control then don't use hormonal birth control, no one can force you.

Some people experience weight gain on Depo and water weight gain can occur with any form of hormonal birth control - but in terms of side-effects or risks this is nothing compared to other potential issues: depression, anxiety, loss of sex drive, higher risk of some cancers, increased vaginal infections, higher risk of stroke or heart attack, eye problems, risk to bone health, restriction on nutrient absorption, etc. All medications have potential side-effects and risks, the key is learning about these factors to make an educated choice for your own health.

Hormonal birth control doesn't 'mess up your cycle' - it completely stops your cycle, that's the whole point of this method of birth control as it needs to stop your cycles so you can't ovulate (bleeding experienced isn't a period but a withdrawal bleed, these bleeds can be irregular at first or you may experience problems with different brands).

Hormonal birth control doesn't cause infertility but you do have to wait some time before getting pregnant once you discontinue hormonal birth control - for one it can take time for your cycles to return and to regulate, as well as it taking time to start ovulating again this means it's more difficult for you to determine when you're fertile. It's also recommended to avoid getting pregnant until your body has had a chance to recover from reduced nutrition.