Ovulation and Trying to Conceive After a Miscarriage & D&C

Question
On October 20th, we discovered through ultrasound that I was indeed beginning a miscarriage and that the embryo had been taking approx. 1 1/2 to 2 weeks to break down.  I did go into a full miscarriage that evening and had a D&C wednesday night.  My husband and I want to try again, however I am 40 yrs old and obviously very afraid that I may have such little time left before I possibly begin menopause and miss our chances to conceive again.  I have an appointment with my physician on Nov. 3rd (2 weeks).  I was wondering though...is there basically a set time period after having a D&C in which a woman probably ovulates?  I don't know a lot about basal temperatures and any type of fertility supplements or anything like that as I have never been in a situation where I have had the need to "try" to get pregnant.  I have 2 children, both were very healthy pregnancies and this is my first miscarriage that I am aware of.  I obviously have not had a menstrual cycle yet since the D&C 2 days ago.  I am sure that I am rushing the idea of becoming pregnant again and I certainly want to make sure that my body can handle another pregnancy physically.  However, I suppose I do feel a sense of urgency due to my age.  I have no medical history or issues at all and all bloodwork and everything from this pregnancy was fine.

Answer
Usually, you will ovulate around 14 days after the D&C. We suggest that you wait for a normal period before you start trying to conceive again. However, if you have a normal 28 day cycle, you probably will ovulate on cycle day #14 and can conceive if you have unprotected sex on cycle day #13, 14,15,or 16. If you are 40 years old, you still have a good ten years before you will reach menopause. I have many, many patients having their first baby after the age of 40 and as long as you get a period every month, you should have no problem conceiving. Miscarriage occurs in 15-20% of every pregnancy. There is nothing you can do to cause a miscarriage and there is nothing you can do to prevent a miscarriage. If you are emotionally ready to try again, go for it. Good luck.