Are there any ways to spread type 1 herpes (cold sores) to the genital area?

Yes: You can also spread type 2 (genital herpes) to the mouth - even without active sores. In either case, the gential lesions are more painful than the oral lesions which tend to be more annoying. Both are treatable but not curable. Your dentist or md can give meds to prevent, control or lesson the discomfort depending on where the lesions are. Avoiding stress seems to lessen the frequency of outbreak.