Those points that you make are very salient, as well as the fact about the overall thought process of what is precarious and what isn't. There are those who choose to work in a position because of what they feel meets their needs, whether they wish to work part time, and they could be men or women.
The research I have done has shown that the market tilts against women, even women who take some leave and go on maternity leave and then raise their child for a bit. When they get back into the workforce, it's a lot slower for them to catch up, if you will, to their male counterparts.