As an STD assistant, I understand your concern about contracting herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in the genital area. HSV-1 is commonly associated with oral herpes or cold sores around the mouth, but it can also cause genital herpes through oral-to-genital contact during sexual activity.
To directly answer your question - yes, it is possible to get HSV-1 in the genital area without oral contact. HSV-1 can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, even in the absence of visible sores or symptoms. This means that genital-to-genital contact with someone who has an active HSV-1 infection, even without direct oral contact, can potentially lead to contracting the virus in the genital region.
However, it's important to note that the risk of transmission is generally lower for HSV-1 compared to HSV-2 (the virus typically associated with genital herpes) when it comes to genital-to-genital transmission.
I want to express my understanding that dealing with concerns about sexually transmitted infections can be challenging and stressful. Please remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to support you. If you have specific concerns or need further guidance, I strongly encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional or seek advice from a trusted sexual health clinic or counselor.