In the world of modern dating, trends come and go - some leaving a mark far worse than others.
As the festive season approaches, singletons across the UK are embracing casual connections at Christmas parties, New Year's Eve celebrations and hometown meetups.
But one new trend has experts sounding the alarm over its potential risks.
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Dubbed 'snowmanning', this behaviour mimics the fleeting nature of a melting snowman, where someone's interest in their new sexual partner vanishes within 24 hours.
The risks of 'snowmanning'
While it might seem like a harmless festive fling, the repercussions of snowmanning could extend far beyond the holiday season.
Shockingly, a recent survey revealed that 20 percent of Brits have fallen victim to this trend, which is often followed by ghosting or an abrupt cut off in communication.
And while the emotional sting of being ignored can be tough, doctors warn that the physical risks - particularly the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - could have far nastier consequences.
Why is 'snowmanning' becoming so popular?
Experts believe that the surge in casual hookups post-lockdown has played a significant role in the rise of this trend.
The survey found that just over a third (33 percent) of Brits admitted to having casual sex during Christmas week, with over a quarter reigniting old flames or finding holiday hookups at bars, clubs or festive work parties.
Alarmingly, only 20 percent of those surveyed reported using condoms during these encounters, contributing to a national spike in STI cases.
Official data shows STI diagnoses in England jumped by nearly a third compared to 2020, with gonorrhoea and syphilis cases rising by 7.5 percent and 9.4 percent, respectively.
The survey also shed light on why so many Brits fall into the snowmanning trap.
Factors like alcohol consumption (15 percent), loneliness (11 percent) and a desire for connection often lead to impulsive decisions during festive gatherings.
Dr. Crystal Wylie, a GP at Asda Online Doctor, warns that snowmanning can leave more than just emotional damage.
Because these flings often end without the exchange of contact details, individuals unknowingly exposed to STIs are left unable to alert their previous partners - or seek treatment themselves.
"This lack of communication can lead to a chain of transmission," she said.
"It's crucial to use protection and get tested regularly, especially during a time of increased social activity like December."
What do the experts advise?
For those engaging in impulsive holiday hookups, Dr. Wylie advises planning ahead by carrying contraception or seeking immediate medical advice after unprotected encounters.
While most STIs are treatable, they can lead to severe health complications if left undiagnosed.
Conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and even neurological damage from untreated syphilis are among the potential risks.
The NHS advises waiting 14 days after risky sexual contact before testing for chlamydia or gonorrhoea, and four weeks for syphilis or HIV.
Common symptoms of STIs include unusual discharge, itching, burning sensations and bleeding between periods or after sex.
Topics: Health
Sara Keenan