Almost 400,000 women are raped every year in America – only about 2 percent of rapists go to jail for their crime. If you are a woman, you are at risk at of rape no matter what your background is but you have the power to take control of your situation!

Oprah says that one of the best things she's learned about self-defense is, never allow yourself to be taken to a second location. It's important to be in control and to use your head in the moment of crisis.

Here are some other self-defense tips:

Trust Your Instincts

• Don't be fooled by appearance—rapists don't always look dangerous.
• If you feel like you're being pressured, coerced, dismissed or ignored, act on that feeling and remove yourself from the situation.
• Don't be afraid to make waves.
• Realize that men misinterpret women, so send clear verbal and non-verbal messages.

Fighting Back
It's important to have a plan in the event of an attack. Build your confidence by taking a self-defense class – it'll empower you with the skills to defend yourself.

• Yell forcefully, "No! Go away! I don't want trouble! No! No!
• Go for the nose with the heel of your hand.
• Go for the groin with your elbows and knees.

  If you've been raped and want to do something about it, find a rape crisis center or friends who can support you.