Genital warts are the most common viral sexually transmitted infection (STI). They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) which can be passed on during sexual contact. Not everyone who has the virus develops genital warts. For most people, including those who have visible warts, the virus will be cleared from the body over time. It is rare for genital warts to cause any long-term problems. Genital warts are caused by an infection of the skin of the genital and anal area with the human papilloma virus (HPV). There are over 100 different types of HPV which can affect different parts of the body, including the hands and feet (a wart on the foot is called a verruca). Approximately 30 types of HPV can live in and around the genital and anal areas but most genital warts are caused by just two types of virus (types 6 and 11).