Charlize Theron says having a new baby is "amazing".

The 'Young Adult' actress has thanked people for their well-wishes following the adoption of baby boy Jackson, and is impressed at how "lovely" her friends have been.

She told Ryan Seacrest on his KIIS FM radio show: "It's been amazing, the amount of emails and congratulations. Everyone's just been so lovely - it's been really lovely."

The 36-year-old beauty has also confessed she is a big fan of keeping Jackson wrapped in swaddling, despite worrying it might be cruel.

She said: "I didn't think I would be a fan of the swaddling, but the swaddling's pretty amazing. It sort of looks a bit like a straightjacket - you're like, 'Is this child abuse?' but for some reason they just love it."

The South African star is believed to have waited a "long time" to finally adopt a child.

A source said: "She has been trying to adopt a baby for a long time.

"She has been very patient and has a great attitude and is ecstatic about finally becoming a mom."