Sexting, which was born thanks to technology and cell phones, has become the perfect accomplice to keep the flame of passion alive. This sexual practice is not limited to sending photos and videos, it is also related to hot text messages and voice messages to awaken all the baser instincts.
However, as in any sexual practice, you have to protect yourself, as explained by Spanish sexologist Paula Alvarez: “Nothing guarantees that the content you send will only be received by the person to whom you send it. To decide whether you should do it or not, you should first think about how you would feel if that image was made public, whether you would be happy or not”.
Meanwhile, Ángela Aznárez, also a sexologist, adds: “If you really want to do it and it is a consensual practice, use safer means such as WhatsApp or Telegram. Make sure that your face is not visible and add stickers or filters to the image so that you are not recognized. Even so, there is no such thing as 100 percent safe sexting, because the risks are still there”.
Meanwhile, Ana Lombardía, sex therapist, makes a distinction in relation to consent: “Many women receive nudes on their social media and this practice is not compatible with sexting, since this must always have the consent of both parties”.
Sending images, without the consent of the other person, may be considered sexual harassment depending on the severity or persistence of each case. Most erotic content sent by heterosexual men is done under the premise of being able to get a picture back.
A group of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania conducted a survey of 1,087 heterosexual men along with a personality test, asking them how they view sex. The study found that 48% admitted that they had, at least once, sent photos of their genitals without consent and 63% of those who did so reported a high narcissistic and sexist personality score.
This is the time in which the human body has been more exposed in media and social networks. This situation has allowed many women to take it as an opportunity to overcome old prejudices or complexes with their physique thanks to this public exhibition. However, while they can receive praise, they can also receive criticism or insults.
Regarding this issue, sexologist Aznárez assures: “There are more and more body positive movements and Instagram accounts that dare to show physical imperfections such as stretch marks or cellulite. This exposure can make many feel more comfortable and confident with their own body, since you realize that no one is perfect”.
Sexting, like any other sexual practice, has some risks. That is why I’ll give you some recommendations to enjoy it responsibly:
You have to confirm that the other person wants to receive the content: It is important that whoever receives this type of content gives you a free hand to do so. It makes no sense to send photos left and right if they have not given you consent.
Check who you are sending the message to: Make sure you send the message to the person you are talking to, so as not to embarrass yourself in the family or school group. If it happens, there is always the option to delete the message for everyone.
Do not give clues: If you are going to send a photo, make sure that your face or a birthmark, scar or tattoo is not visible. Even if there is trust, it is better to be safe.
Forwarding content: Do not forward photos or videos that someone else has sent you without their express consent. This practice is known as sexpreading, and is a crime. Do not do to others what you do not want them to do to you.
The risks of sexting are minimized when it involves adults, who are confident enough to give free rein to their most intimate desires. Under no circumstances is it a practice for children and/or teenagers, who, unfortunately, are a vulnerable population.
These hot messages can work as a de-stressor. Maybe your partner had a bad day and that message or photo could improve their mood and even more if they know they have a sexy surprise at home.
Traducción del español: Catalina Oviedo Brugés
No Comments