GirlsGuideTo | Practice Safe Sexting: 8 Ways to Hit “Send” Without Regret

Ninety-two percent of women say they exchange sexy texts. But sexting can be as dangerous as it is popular. Thanks to philandering politicians and cocky pro athletes, sexting has gotten a bad rap. But that’s not fair! A SELF poll finds that 93 percent of sexters are sending suggestive texts not to some near stranger, but to a husband, a boyfriend, someone she's dating or a friend with benefits. Why?

Most women say it's fun and makes them feel sexy and it lets their guy know they want him. Sexting is a simple way to spice things up. Plus, some women feel freer to say racy things in a text than they do in person. Of course, that freedom can get you into trouble. The next time you're in the mood, use these tips and type your way to better sex without the embarrassment.

Avoid Sexting Too Much, Too Soon

Sexting to get a guy's attention and increase his interest is not the best idea. Unless you want to be known as "that crazy sexting girl." It pays to get to know someone before going there. A rule of thumb: Wait three dates before texting something sweet: "Thinking of you!" And wait three months until you send something really sweet: "Thinking of you…naked."

Keep an Eye on Autocorrect

Something hot can quickly become something weird or funny when your smartphone plays dumb (e.g., "I can't wait to get your oats off!"). Switch off autocorrect, but do double-check your spelling: Misspelled words are a big sexting turnoff—even more offensive than emoticons! ;)

Slighty Bisqué Beats all out Raunchy

Lesson: Graphic is in the eye of the receiver. Less is more. Channel the pinups of the past and remember that a little mystery keeps everyone's interest piqued. Gear up for bedroom action with a sexy but subtle "This a.m. was amazing! Round 2 tonight?"

No Full-Body Nude Pics

Most sexters have sent partially nude photo texts—and some have dared to go totally bare. But if you're showing your face, it's unwise to also reveal any body part you would cover at the beach. You know any text could get forwarded. If your guy requests a naked pic, reply, "How about holding out for the real thing?"

Don’t Sip and Sext

It's not surprising that women say they're likely to whip out their phones while drinking. A few glasses of wine give us courage, and drunk sexting takes even less effort than drunk dialing. But we guarantee you're not as clever/adorable/bold as your clouded brain thinks you are. Sorry. So stick to one drink, if you must, to get the words flowing; any more than that and you're better off stashing your phone in your handbag.

Hit “Delete” ASAP

That way, you'll avoid a major oops! moment when showing pals shots of your puppy. Concerned your guy may not be as careful? Make sexts tame enough so that you wouldn't be mortified if his buddy caught a glimpse.

Blushproof Your Phone

People can't help but look at your phone when they hear the ding that means you've gotten a text. If you don't want them to see anything too personal, set your settings so messages don't automatically pop up on your screen. Oh, and obvious but worth repeating: Never sext from your work phone.

Think of the Future

If you're a celeb, involved in politics or otherwise in the public eye (or want to be), don't sext. Seriously, put down the phone!