Double double twin trouble

When Simone and John Burstow found out they were having twin boys in 2011 they were shocked but excited – now history has repeated with the Brisbane couple celebrating the arrival of twin girls on Father’s Day at Mater Mothers’ Private Hospital Brisbane.

Mater Mothers’ Private Brisbane Obstetrician Dr Rob Butler who is caring for Simone said it was rare for parents to have two sets of identical twins.

“Identical twin pregnancies are infrequent events, but Simone's two sets of identical twins are incredibly rare, with an incidence around 1 per 100 000”, Dr Butler said.

“Simone and John's twins were even more unique because while their boys had their own placentas, her little girls shared the same placenta, which added further challenges to her pregnancy and birth,” he said.

“In the end, everyone in the birth suite was so excited to meet such healthy little girls, and we have been constantly amazed by Simone's positivity, confidence and parenting abilities over the past week!

“I did suggest that Simone and John try again next year to see how many twin sets are possible, but I'm not sure they're on board just yet!” Dr Butler said.

Both sets of twins are identical and naturally conceived.

Mum Simone said little Evie and Georgia’s birth was an unexpected Father’s Day gift.

“They weren’t due until the 9 October and I hadn’t organised a Father’s Day present for John, and it turns out I didn’t need to!” Simone laughed.

“John said the girl’s arrival at 35 weeks was more than enough of a present!” she said.

While big brothers Harrison and Oliver are pretty excited to welcome their little sisters – they are not so happy about all the presents their sisters are receiving.

“The boys announced to me that their new favourite colours are pink and purple which is a blatant attempt to get a share of the gifts,” Simone said.

There’s no doubt Simone and John will have their hands full, but these parents are just taking it all in their stride.

“When the boys came to visit the twins in hospital we had a glimpse into our future lives – John and I were holding a twin each and the boys were just all over the place – it was pretty crazy!” she said.