Today we introduce you to Dr. María de Gracia León Palacios, head of the Psychology Unit at Inebir.
María de Gracia is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Psychology through the PIR program. These four years of practical training in the various Mental Health Units of the Virgen del Rocío Hospital have qualified her to diagnose and evaluate mental disorders, design and implement intervention programs, carry out counseling, interconsultation and liaison activities with other professionals, and manage emergency situations.
She has extensive experience in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adults, adolescents, and children.
She is an expert in the treatment of various emotional disorders such as: anxiety disorders, depression, grief or loss processes, obsessions, eating disorders or childhood behavioral disorders.
Within the healthcare field, why did you decide to specialize in Assisted Reproduction?
Within Psychology, Reproductive Psychology is a very new field of action that generated a lot of interest for me because of the possibility of preventing and carrying out psychological treatments in a hospital context and working in a multidisciplinary team, from which we can give a more comprehensive response to fertility problems.
Furthermore, it is a branch of psychology linked to the perinatal field, from which the emotional changes that occur during the motherhood process are studied, from preconception to bonding with the baby and raising children, aspects that have excited me since the beginning of my professional practice.
From your experience as an expert in Assisted Reproduction, what are the most frequent emotional disturbances in these patients?
Emotions such as frustration, helplessness, anger, and sadness are common and can lead to depressive and anxious moods, with a loss of interest and the ability to enjoy life. Furthermore, both women and men often experience decreased self-esteem and feelings of guilt.
What is the main characteristic in the treatment of this type of patient?
The treatment will depend a lot on the initial assessment and the analysis that is carried out; therefore, it involves personalized treatments based on the problem that is detected.
We know that most patients who come to our Center are under a great deal of pressure; after a period of constant disappointments trying unsuccessfully to conceive, they decide to put themselves in our hands to study their case, facing a diagnosis of infertility. How does this process usually affect the couple? Does it affect other areas of their lives?
Difficulties in achieving a desired pregnancy affect various levels: personal, romantic, social, and professional. On a personal level, as mentioned earlier, mood swings and anxiety are common. At the romantic level, communication difficulties, increased arguments, withdrawal, and a decreased ability to resolve problems may arise. Changes in desire or pleasure during sexual relations may also occur, related to focusing these activities exclusively on procreation.
On a social level, it's problematic because it's still not an openly discussed topic in society. People with fertility issues often hide it because they perceive a lack of understanding from those around them. It's common for them to reduce contact with others to avoid asking uncomfortable questions and feeling pressured by comments. Avoiding social gatherings where babies or pregnant women are present is also common.
Finally, difficulties concentrating and maintaining attention are common. This affects work performance, compounded by the stress of having to justify absences from work to attend scheduled treatment appointments.
92% of our patients come from other centers after at least two failed attempts. What advice would you give these patients to face this new stage?
After previous unsuccessful experiences, it's crucial to analyze all the doubts that have arisen along the way to reduce uncertainty. In the initial stages, asking questions and resolving doubts with the medical team is essential, as is developing a relationship of trust with the people who will be caring for you during this new process.
Emotional care is also necessary, especially for people who have experienced a series of losses and grief in their histories, such as cases of repeated miscarriages.
In our daily work, we observe that many taboos still exist regarding seeking psychological help. What would you say to people who are going through a difficult time and are considering seeking psychological support but are hesitant to take the step?
Mental disorders are still largely unknown to society. Anxiety and depression are very common, and it is estimated that one in four people will experience some form of mental illness at some point in their lives. However, seeking help from a mental health professional is often a taboo subject, primarily due to myths and misconceptions about mental disorders.
Sometimes, professional help is necessary, especially when unpleasant feelings arise or situations become overwhelming, leaving you feeling like you lack the personal resources to cope. I would encourage anyone feeling overwhelmed to seek professional help and not wait, as this can sometimes lead to the problem becoming chronic.
It is important to know that the field of Clinical Psychology has developed a lot in recent years and we have proven psychological treatments to improve people's quality of life and facilitate recovery so that discomfort does not interfere with daily activities, and people can resume their personal, social and professional activities.
In our Psychology Unit, we provide specialized treatment for reproductive and fertility issues, miscarriages, sexual dysfunctions, and chronic pain. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as group therapy.
We guarantee respect for confidentiality, and a safe and peaceful environment.
The first consultation is completely free for patients of InebirIf you think we can help you, don't hesitate to contact us.