{
  "id": 1699766,
  "title": "Artificial Nails Are Causing Fertility and Pregnancy Problems in Women",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/artificial-nails-are-causing-fertility-and-pregnancy-problems-in-women",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-18T11:35:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ProPakistani",
    "slug": "propakistani",
    "url": "https://propakistani.pk/2026/08/18/artificial-nails-are-causing-fertility-and-pregnancy-problems-in-women/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A chemical ingredient in certain artificial nails, known as trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), is now facing scrutiny over potential risks to fertility and pregnancy health. As a result, the UK has introduced new restrictions effective August 15, 2026, prohibiting the sale of new cosmetic products containing TPO throughout England, Scotland, and Wales. TPO serves as a photoinitiator, assisting in the curing of gel nail polish under UV light. Animal studies have classified TPO as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant, linking high exposure to potential fertility and reproductive issues. However, the new regulations do not ban artificial nails or gel manicures outright. Instead, the restrictions are focused on the presence of TPO. Many nail salons have already transitioned to TPO-free products. The ban is being phased in, allowing salons to continue using existing TPO-containing stock until February 14, 2027. Thereafter, the sale or distribution of any products containing TPO will also be prohibited. The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association has emphasized that this measure is precautionary and does not signify an immediate threat to consumers.",
  "summary": "A chemical used in some artificial and fake nail products has come under scrutiny over potential fertility and reproductive health … Read More The post Artificial Nails Are Causing Fertility and Pregnancy Problems in Women appeared first on ProPakistani .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}