When sexing an adult, I always try popping first, then I probe. If I can pop his 'penes, I don't bother probing. If no 'penes, then comes the probe to verify it's a female. The problem with only popping adults is that males have pretty good muscular control of the hemipenes, so you may not see hemipenes if it is not done correctly, or if he is just not letting them come out. Probing, if done correctly, is very safe. If you use the correct sized probe, a little lube, and good technique, there is really nothing to worry about. The more you pop and probe, the easier it is to feel confident with your methods, and the less you worry about screwing anything up. Happy probing!!

-Evan