Deeside lab identifies identical triplets in 200 million-to-one rarity

A Deeside testing laboratory has successfully identified genetically identical triplets for the third time in as many years.

The discovery defies incredible odds, estimated at 200 million to one, highlighting the rarity of such events.

Louise and Gareth Davies, the proud parents from West Yorkshire, began a genetic testing journey with Deeside based lab NorthGene after a scan at 12 weeks revealed a unique dichorionic triplet pregnancy, suggesting the possibility of identical triplets.

Willow, Nancie, and Mabel Davies were born on 10th November 2023, at 34 weeks.

Eager to maintain accurate medical records and provide clarity for their daughters’ future, the Davies’ opted for zygosity testing through NorthGene.

The results brought immense joy to the family, confirming the triplets as genetically identical.

“We are over the moon with the results, we couldn’t be happier to know that the girls are all identical,” they said.

Charlotte Haskayne, Team Leader at NorthGene, emphasised the emotional impact of their work, saying, “Some cases can be really heart-warming, knowing we have made a difference in people’s lives is the reason why we do what we do”.

The Twins Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting families with multiples, stressed the importance of treating each triplet as an individual.

Shauna Leven, Chief Executive of Twins Trust, advised, “It’s so important for families to allow the triplets to establish themselves as individuals… It also means thinking carefully about their individual educational needs when they start school.”

The Davies family expressed gratitude towards the supportive community of triplet parents, especially a mother of Cardiff triplets who recommended NorthGene.

This rare genetic occurrence not only brings joy to the Davies family but also contributes significantly to the scientific understanding of genetic variations in multiple births.