Final answer:
The newborn is placed at the level of the placenta (or vaginal opening) immediately after birth for reasons related to breathing and the baby's transition to the outside world.
Step-by-step explanation:
The newborn is placed at the level of the placenta (or vaginal opening) immediately after birth for several reasons. First, cutting the umbilical cord means that the baby can no longer get rid of carbon dioxide through the cord and placenta, so breathing is necessary to remove carbon dioxide from the baby's blood. Second, the baby's transition from the womb to the outside world involves significant changes in temperature, light, and noise. Placing the newborn at the level of the placenta helps facilitate the delivery of the placenta and ensures the baby's well-being.