Romina Anahí Tejerina was born on June 24, 1983, in San Pedro, Jujuy Province, Argentina. At the age of 19, she alleged that she was raped by a 41-year-old neighbor on August 1, 2002, after leaving a nightclub. Fearing retaliation, she did not report the assault. Tejerina concealed her pregnancy from her family, using tight clothing and laxatives to hide the signs. Only her sister, Érica, was aware of the situation, having been sworn to secrecy under the threat of suicide. This period was marked by significant psychological distress for Tejerina.

On February 23, 2003, Tejerina gave birth prematurely at seven months in the bathroom of her home, with her sister assisting in cutting the umbilical cord. Shortly after the birth, Tejerina placed the newborn in a small box and, experiencing a psychotic episode, attacked the baby with a knitting needle, reportedly stating that she saw the face of her rapist in the child. The infant was taken to the hospital but succumbed to the injuries two days later.

Tejerina was arrested on February 25, 2003, and charged with aggravated homicide due to the familial relationship. During her trial, the defense argued that the murder resulted from a psychotic break linked to the trauma of the alleged rape. However, the court found insufficient evidence to support the rape claim, as the accused neighbor contended that the sexual encounter was consensual and was subsequently acquitted. On June 10, 2005, Tejerina was sentenced to 14 years in prison. ​

The case sparked national debate in Argentina, highlighting issues related to sexual violence, mental health, and reproductive rights. Supporters argued that Tejerina was a victim of systemic failures, including inadequate support for rape victims and restrictive abortion laws. After serving nine years of her sentence, Tejerina was released on June 24, 2012, her 29th birthday, having completed two-thirds of her term.