Author ' s response to reviews Title : Socio - economic

Comments in Bullet 1 The reviewer indicated that it would be more interesting if authors could present results on the outcome of deliveries conducted by TBAs and those conducted in hospitals. The reviewer assumed that MICS has this information as well. Response to comments Bullet 1 Data on outcome of deliveries was not collected in the Iraq MICS. Comments in Bullet 2 The reviewer suggested that the assumption stated below be removed or rephrased: “The assumption being that delivery under the supervision of TBAs was likely to be under less than optimal circumstance with heightened risk of adverse maternal and fetal and neonatal outcomes compared to health facility delivery under the supervision of health professionals” Response to comments in Bullet 2 We agree with the reviewers comments and removed the assumption in question. Introduction: Comments in Bullet