I was on this for 3.5 years. During this time I had no periods and no side effects. For me it was great. After deciding not to use it anymore it took a further 3 months for AF to return, she was lighter and more regular than she had been before going on it.
It can take up to a year (or longer) for fertility to return to some people after taking it, keep that in mind if you are thinking about another bub in the future.
Also, the other downside is that if it doesn't suit you and you have side effects you have to wait it out, unlike the pill which you can stop taking.