I am now 33 days past my m/c and I have had ovulation pain with ewcm twice once at 14 days and once at 23 days. The pain was on the left side the first time then the right side the second time. I have also had most the symptoms I get before AF starts but yet I still haven't started AF. I am still in the waiting game. Everyone's body is different I guess you can't really tell when your cycle will return to normal.
Yes, you can/will ovualte sometime before you get your first period. So if you want to wait then you do need to use protection, especially since you really don't know when it is going to happen. They usually reccomend waiting a month (sometimes more) for you to get a regualar cycle so that they can date your next pregnancy better. Not only does your body need to recoup but you need to emotionally as well. and to be prepared for the next time you get pregnant, it will be an emotional roller coaster.