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Gardening has tremendous benefits, even in small quantities, with few side effects. As health providers, we should encourage our patients to garden. Some providers discourage gardening due to concerns about Toxoplasmosis. But the benefits of gardening far outweigh the risks in pregnancy. As an OB/GYN and Garden Coach, I am a strong advocate for gardening in pregnancy.
These are good garden safety tips for all of us, and especially important in pregnancy.
Wash your hands frequently,
Wash produce thoroughly.
Wear gloves.
Deter cats from entering your garden beds, especially beds growing edibles. (Placing chopsticks around the perimeter works well.)
Avoid the use of pesticides
Wear sunscreen
Use caution when lifting potentially heavy objects, stay hydrated, and take rests frequently.
I'll see you in the garden!
T
o learn more visit https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/infections.html.
Questions? You can contact me here.