In women, progesterone levels are relatively low during the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, rise after ovulation, and are elevated during the luteal phase, as shown in diagram below. Progesterone levels tend to be < 2 ng/ml prior to ovulation, and > 5 ng/ml after ovulation.
Results for this Gallup poll are based on telephone interviews conducted Aug. 7-Dec. 29, 2013, on the Gallup Daily tracking survey, with a random sample of 3,445 adults, aged 18-34, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, who report they are currently living at home with their parents.
If the parents work for the same company, the 12 weeks is then divided between the two of them and is an accumulation of both of their time (i.e., each could take 6 weeks off, or one could take 4 weeks while the other takes 8 weeks).