TV presenter Ashley James says we need to talk more about recovery from childbirth

People should speak more about the physical recovery after having a baby, and not just about weight gain, according to TV presenter Ashley James. TV presenter and DJ Ashley James, 34, has opened up about her journey with pregnancy and early motherhood She gave birth to baby Alf River Andrews in January this year - just before the nation headed back into lockdown While the star says she enjoyed the baby bubble of being at home with her new son, she is also open about the physical and mental difficulties of pregnancy and motherhood Ashley James' family did not get to meet her son Alf River Andrews for several months after he was born because of the lockdown 'I think we presume or expect our bodies to just suddenly go back to what they were - but actually it takes time. Ashley says that having a baby has changed her body in multiple ways - and the collection she curated for Tu is aimed at helping pregnant women and new mums feel more confident Putting on clothes she feels comfortable and confident in is one of the quickest ways to lift her mood, according to Ashley She enjoyed sharing photos and videos on her social media documenting my pregnancy journey, saying support from others helped her too Ashley gave birth just before the country went into lockdown earlier this year. Dressing while pregnant was something Ashley found difficult, but she found ways to help with the changes to her pre and post pregnancy body Her biggest tip was to put away all her old clothes that didn't fit, and get new items in the right size, that she could feel good in 'And it also made me realise I wasn’t alone in my feelings. She also says it's about perspective, and sees stretch marks and other signs of having a baby as 'something to be joyful about' The new mother also recommends exercise - not to 'punish' your body, but to make yourself feel better 'That’s what inspired me to create my “The Baby Edit” with Tu.