Here is where we will agree, SilentFactor. Women often take a parallel track in their careers, called the Mommy Track, that leads to a lower salary, but keeps their foot in the door through their childbearing years. It is not something women should complain about. They get greater flexibility and use more benefits in these situations, whereas their male peers are still plugging away at a faster pace, and using less benefits (sick days, parental leave, etc.).
Men who keep up that pace should be compensated fairly. But this is often not taken into account at all by people who complain. But what do I know? I opted out entirely to stay home and raise my kids and be flexible about moving for the sake of my husband’s career.