A how-to guide for surviving miscarriage and grief.
'This book is a stigma-smashing, hope-giving, anecdote-telling kind of support. It is your best mate who comes over with soft, stinky cheese, deli meats, shellfish and wine as soon as you tell them your test is negative or your pregnancy is non-viable. This book is a warm hug, a friendship circle, a big sister. And this sister has been there. She understands. She's holding your hand and walking you through some of the really tough stuff you're feeling.'
Around the world, over 23 million people experience a form of pregnancy loss every year. In Australia that translates to 150 000 lost pregnancies. Yet navigating the tragedy, shock and grief of such a common experience is still largely a taboo topic of conversation.
A Common Misconception is a how-to guide to surviving miscarriage, infertility and grief written by someone who truly knows. Libby Trainor Parker, a journalist, author and comedy cabaret star, has lived through 11 pregnancy losses of her own and countless fertility appointments. Incorporating her signature warm, conversational and compassionate style, A Common Misconception is part instruction manual, part memoir, offering practical steps towards recovery as well as a whole lot of understanding and empathy for anyone living and coping with loss.
Through interviews with experts, shared stories, and support for taking care of your heart (along with a few swear words and cathartic giggles thrown in for good measure), A Common Misconception is designed to be picked up, put down, bookmarked for later reading or consumed whole. When you're ready.
About the Author
Writer, comedian, journalist, teacher and cabaret performer Libby Trainor Parker is a passionate patient advocate dedicated to awareness and action. Blending gentle humour with hard-hitting truths to empower others navigating the healthcare system, Libby's debut book Endo Days: Life, Love, and Laughter with Endometriosis (Wakefield Press, 2023) offers a candid and comedic look at living with chronic illness, combining personal anecdotes with practical advice and much-needed levity.
Through honest and cathartic storytelling, Libby uses laughter as a tool for connection, strength and advocacy. Whether on stage, in print, or through her advocacy work, Libby continues to challenge misconceptions about women's (and AFAB people's) health while offering support and solidarity to those who need it most.
Libby runs Endo Support SA, is an affiliate member of Australian Coalition for Endometriosis (ACE), a Member on the Advisory Board for Robinson Research Institute and has co-authored and worked on committees for various women's health and research projects. She won the Spirit of the Fringe Weekly Award 2025, Women in Innovation Arts Award 2023, SA Woman of the Year Allrounder Award 2022 and Best Cabaret Adelaide Fringe Weekly Award (Endo Days) 2021.
